MAKAF Credits Team Effort for Success at 2026 Asian Games

Nagoya:Malaysia The Malaysian Karate Federation (MAKAF) has credited the success of their exponents, who won two gold and three bronze medals at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, to structured planning, thorough preparation, and continuous support from various organizations. According to BERNAMA News Agency, MAKAF President Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad highlighted the comprehensive support received through the National Sports Council's (NSC) Podium Programme, alongside the crucial role played by the National Sports Institute (NSI) in sports science, nutrition, performance, and athlete recovery. Nur Azmi emphasized that the success was a result of a cohesive ecosystem involving the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), NSC, NSI, MAKAF's planning, and the dedication of exponents and coaches. He also expressed gratitude towards Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari for his ongoing support and commitment to athlete welfare. He further hopes that the achievements at Asiad 2026 will inspire Malaysian karate e xponents to achieve more on the international stage. The first gold medal was claimed by Adeola Fay Robert, who defeated Iran's Fatemehzahra Saeidabadi 6-4 in the women's below 55-kilogramme kumite final. C. Shahmalarani secured the second gold in the women's below 50kg kumite event, triumphing over Hong Kong's Tsang Yee Ting via a judges' decision following a 0-0 draw. Bronze medals were won by Mukhriz Mazlan, Mohamad Haznil Henry, and Muhammad Aiqal in the men's team kata, Thevendran Kaliana Sundram in the men's below 55kg kumite, and H. Sureeya Sankar in the men's below 60kg kumite. The 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games commenced on September 19 and will conclude on October 4.