Malaysia’s national karate squad lit up the 2025 Thailand SEA Games stage today with two commanding gold medal victories, reaffirming the nation’s strength in kumite and injecting fresh momentum into the country’s overall medal haul.
At the Rathhaprasasanphadi Government Complex, the atmosphere turned electric as Thevendran Kaliana Sundram became the first Malaysian karateka of the day to clinch gold. Competing in the men’s under-55kg category, Thevendran delivered a performance so precise and aggressive that his Vietnamese opponent, Chu Van Duc was left without room to respond. The Malaysian sealed a clean and emphatic 4-0 victory, showcasing tactical discipline, speed, and unshakable control throughout the bout.
The triumph did more than secure his place atop the podium, it also marked Malaysia’s fifth gold medal of the Games, further uplifting team morale as competitors intensified.
Riding on the high of Thevendran’s victory, Malaysia’s karate powerhouse C.Shahmalarani stepped onto the mat next with the weight of expectations, and delivered with ease. Ranked fifth in the world, Shahmalarani displayed the composure, skill, and authority befitting her status. Her sharp execution and fluid movement overwhelmed Myanmar’s Florence Nay Chi Htun, culminating in another flawless 4-0 win for Malaysia.
The back-to-back victories not only highlight Malaysia’s technical calibre but also reinforce the country’s dominance in Southeast Asia karate. For Shahmalarani, who continues to rise as one of Malaysia’s most consistent medal prospects, the gold adds another glittering chapter to her growing legacy.
With two gold medals secured in a single session, the Malaysian karate camp has set a powerful tone for the remainder of the Games, one defined by confidence, precision, and unyielding spirit. As competitors continue, the nation’s athletes carry forward the belief that more triumphs lie ahead.
