National sporting heroes and their stories beyond the podium
SPORTING achievements are often remembered through medals, records and final results.
Malaysia takes pride in its sporting heroes, whose stories extend beyond medals and records. Paralympian Abdul Latif, at 19, broke the T20 long jump world record three times during the 2016 Rio Paralympics, securing Malaysia's third gold medal. Despite the pressure, he defended his title in Tokyo, accumulating five world titles.
However, at Paris 2024, neutral athlete Matvei Iakushev overtook him, leading to a silver medal. Undeterred, Abdul Latif aimed to surpass his world record at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, setting a personal best and winning Malaysia's fifth gold medal.
Weightlifter Mohamad Aniq Kasdan, from a modest background, nearly abandoned the sport during the Movement Control Order. Yet he persevered, reaching the 2024 Paris Olympics and setting a national record with a combined lift of 297kg. Despite finishing fourth, Aniq returned to the 2026 Commonwealth Games determined to improve, winning Malaysia's first gold medal in the men's 60kg category with a record-breaking performance.
Hiker and mountaineer Margaret Chew found her calling in her 50s. After losing her youngest son in a tragic explosion, she climbed Mount Everest to encourage others, particularly women, regardless of age or circumstance. She reached Camp Four at 7,920m but turned back due to severe congestion, prioritising safety over the desire to reach the summit.
While she did not achieve her original goal, her journey exemplifies courage and resilience in the face of adversity. These stories, highlighted by U Mobile's "Semangat Membara, Untukmu Malaysia" campaign, illustrate that national pride encompasses perseverance, overcoming disappointment, and making difficult choices for the greater good.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
