National Team Head Coach R. Sharmendran described the Karate 1 (K1) Series A as a crucial platform to evaluate his athletes ahead of the Thailand SEA Games in December.
Malaysia’s Karate queen, Shahmalarani, clinched the country’s only gold at the event, defeating Germany’s Shara Hubrich 5-1 in the women’s below-50kg final. This victory adds to her previous Series A titles in Jakarta (2022) and Larnaca, Cyprus (February 2024).
“The Series A gave us a great chance to test our athletes. We sent a mix of seasoned fighters and newcomers to face some of the best in the world,” said Sharmendran.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old debutant Danesh Asyraf Nazri impressed by finishing seventh in the men’s below-60kg category, showing that Malaysia’s young talents can compete with top-level opponents.
However, not all went smoothly for the team. Sureeya Shankar, who was leading 6-0 in his men’s below-60kg bout, was penalised at the end of the third round and lost, highlighting areas for improvement.
Sharmendran added, “There are areas we need to improve, but we’re not worried — we still have time.”
The SEA Games remain the team’s main focus, especially after contributing 10 medals — four golds, two silvers, and four bronzes — at the 2023 Cambodia edition.
Looking ahead, Sharmendran is also preparing the next generation for the 2027 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games. “We’re fast-tracking their progress through high-level competitions and intensive training. I believe they can be the next stars of Malaysian karate,” said the four-time SEA Games champion.
Source: NST
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