The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants.– Gichin Funakoshi

Prem Kumar enters the new year with a remarkable-historic triumph!

In the 41st National Senior Karate Championship 2023, our national karate athlete, Prem Kumar Selvam made a sensational record by sealing the National Champion title for the 10th time. (Winning the title for ten consecutive years? Well, this achievement is just mind-blowing)

Varnam Malaysia had the pleasure to catch up with Prem Kumar, who shared a glimpse of his Karate journey.

During the interview, the Malaysian karate exponent, Prem Kumar expressed that winning this medal is a good start for him this year. Furthermore, he said that this victory is one of his big accomplishments.

He enthusiastically exclaimed, “I’ve created history by winning consecutively for the 10th time,” emphasizing his joy and gratitude for capturing this competition.

Before undertaking this tournament, last year December, this champ also participated in the AKF Karate Championships 2022 in Uzbekistan where he secured his third Bronze medal in the men’s under-55 kilogram Kumite category.

Hobby to Profession

The 29-year-old karateka explained that his journey in this karate sphere started when he was 4. “I initially took it as a hobby and joined a karate club near my housing area,”

Finally, armed with all the skills he had acquired over the years, he fearlessly entered SUKMA for the first time and he WON. The euphoria of the victory fuels him to go on with his athletic journey. Ever since then, he has begun competing in tournaments at the national and international levels.

Speaking more about his victories, Prem divulged an unforgettable moment with Varnam Malaysia.

“My most cherished moment was the 2018’s Asian Karate Championships in Jordan. I thought at that moment that this would be my final game. Therefore, I aimed to play well in my final game before I retire.” he elucidate.

“Surprisingly, I succeeded in winning the game I had initially doubted I would,” said Prem.

“I won a Bronze medal, and this victory qualifies me for the Asian Games.” He kept going on because of the significant victory. Also, Prem is also set to participate in the upcoming September Asian Games.

Hailing from Kuala Lumpur, he extended his heartiest gratitude to his parents, Mr Selvam and Mrs Shanthi. “Without their encouragement and support, I never would have made it this far. They have always been there for me as my backbone whether I win or lose” she said.

Dato P. Arivalagan is another significant figure in my life for whom I would want to convey my gratitude. “He showed me a path, and I’ve been standing here ever since. He is the reason my name is known in this field.”

He who got many accolades throughout his karate career mentioned that Datuk Nicol Ann David is a great inspiration to him. “Personally, I’ve met her and talked to her. She has shared tonnes of great bits of knowledge.

“You must work hard till you earn something if you desire it.” During the conversation that Prem had with Datuk Nicol, she told him that it doesn’t matter if you win or lose; just keep going till you succeed.

This lad is also a receiver of the coveted “BINTANG KHIDMAT TERPUJI” badge, which was bestowed by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka, Tun Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam in 2021.