Brunei’s karate team returned to a warm welcome after winning two silver and one bronze medals at the 21st Malaysian Games (SUKMA XXI). They arrived at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday after a road trip from Miri, Sarawak in Malaysia, where the event was held.
Farhah Syahirah binti Mohamad Shamrin, who earned a silver medal for Brunei in the women’s kata event with a score of 38.6, said, “I’m proud of doing my best in the competition. However, winning silver means there are still areas where I need to improve and work on.”
Reflecting on her performance, she said, “My goal was gold, and the score was very close – just 0.6 points off. I’m a bit frustrated but I did my best and am satisfied with the result.” The 21-year-old hopes to win medals for Brunei in the upcoming ASEAN Games 2025 and the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games 2024.
Meanwhile, Awangku Ahmad Munib Aiman bin Pengiran Haji Hasimudin, who won a silver medal in the men’s kumite 55-kilogramme category, reflected on his final performance, “I made a small mistake with my strategy, which cost me the gold medal,” he said. Despite a bruise on his right eye from a punch, he said, “I’m not afraid of getting hit. My shorter stature means I need to get close to score points.”
He added, “Nonetheless, I’m happy and honoured to win the silver medal. I believe I’ve made my country, coach and family proud. I hope to win gold in future competitions.” Meanwhile, Farhin Idlan bin Mohamad Shamrin, Muhammad Iqbal bin Asnan and Muhammad Syahmi Zaffran bin Bakar won a bronze medal in the men’s kata team event.
Farhin Idlan said winning a bronze was a significant achievement and motivation to prepare better in future events.
Permanent Secretary (Sports) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud welcomed their arrival. The Brunei karate team will depart today for the Asian Karate Federation Cadet, Junior and U21 Championships in Manila, the Philippines. – James Kon
