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KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 — Following their impressive five gold medal performance at the recent Commonwealth Games, the Malaysian Weightlifting Association (PABM) is now broadening its efforts to discover talent in the heavier weight categories as part of its strategy for upcoming sports events. President Datuk Ayub Rahmat shared that the team's success has demonstrated Malaysia's athletes' potential to compete internationally in these categories, dispelling the belief that the country's strength lies solely in lower weight divisions.

Rahmat explained that it was previously assumed that Malaysia was unable to challenge in heavier weight categories on the international stage. However, the athletes' accomplishments at the Commonwealth Games have disproved this notion. He emphasized the need to reaffirm the commitment to these categories, stating, "We have athletes with great potential in such weight categories, thus dispelling the doubts of many parties. Therefore, we need to redouble our efforts towards that."

Previously, Malaysia secured five gold medals in the weightlifting event at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. These victories came from Mohamad Aniq Kasdan (men's 60kg), Muhammad Aznil Bidin (men's 65kg), Muhammad Erry Hidayat (79kg), Muhammad Hafizuddin Ruslin (88kg) and Mohamad Syahmi Nor Ghazali (94kg).

Ayub Rahmat explained that PABM will collaborate with state associations to identify more promising athletes. Rather than focusing on a large number of participants, the association aims to develop quality athletes capable of meeting international standards. He expressed his hope that the national squad's success at the Commonwealth Games would serve as motivation for state athletes, particularly ahead of the ongoing Selangor SUKMA event, to aim for higher performance, even surpassing the achievements of their senior counterparts who have brought the country acclaim on the global stage.

Rahmat concluded by stating, "The door is always wide open for any athlete who exhibits extraordinary performance to be selected to represent the country at the international level."