As 2024 draws to a close, Malaysians continue to set remarkable milestones, with the Selangor Hayashi-Ha Karate Association achieving a groundbreaking feat in martial arts.
The association made history by earning recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for hosting the largest black belt grading examination, which saw 429 candidates showcase their skills at the Panasonic Sports Complex in Shah Alam.
This extraordinary event, held on last Sunday (December 15), brought together karate practitioners of all ages, demonstrating the growing appeal and importance of martial arts in Malaysia.
The Deputy Director of Sports at the Selangor Youth and Sports Department, Norazreen Sulaiman officiated the ceremony, emphasizing the role of such initiatives in fostering a culture of discipline and community engagement through sports.
He also added that the dedication showcased by the trainees to participate in this examination reflects their commitment and discipline towards the martial arts.
For Head Coach Thennavan Ponniyah, the scale of participation was a testament to karate’s growing popularity in the country.
According to him, usually the grading session does not see participants more than 100. However, this time around the 429 participants proves the rise in interest for Karate.
Thennavan shared that the planning for this record-setting event began in January 2024. The goal was not just to create a record but to celebrate the hard work and perseverance of the trainees while inspiring more people to explore martial arts.
The initiative underscored the benefits of karate in cultivating discipline, improving health, and shaping personal growth. The event also served as a platform to raise awareness about the broader value of martial arts in society.
Thennavan highlighted the dual benefits of karate—as both a sport and a tool for character building as it encourages values like resilience, focus, and respect, which are essential for all age groups. .
The Selangor Hayashi-Ha Karate Association hopes this achievement will act as a springboard for further growth in martial arts participation across Selangor and Malaysia.
“The Hayashi-Ha Karate Association hopes that the success in creating this record will be a catalyst for increased participation in karate in Selangor and throughout the country.”
“This effort is also seen as a positive step in fostering the spirit of sportsmanship and healthy competition among youth,” he said.
With support from the Selangor Youth and Sports Department, the association envisions karate becoming a key sport for fostering community spirit and healthy competition among the youth.
The overwhelming response to the event reflects a collective enthusiasm for martial arts in Malaysia, marking a promising chapter for karate’s role in nurturing discipline and excellence among its practitioners.
The record set by the Selangor Hayashi-Ha Karate Association stands as a proud symbol of the nation’s commitment to sportsmanship and community development.
Source: Sinar Harian
