'Onsoi': The Murut word behind Ivy's golden karate moment

KOTA KINABALU — Ivy Olivera Donny, 20, a Sabah-based karate athlete, clinched the women's Under-21 individual kata gold at the Asian Karate Federation Cadet, Junior and U21 Championships held in Amman, Jordan, on September 10.

Ivy had initially intended to join a taekwondo club at St Joseph Primary School in Penampang when she was seven years old. However, upon attending her first training session, she realized it was, in fact, a karate club. Her parents, already having purchased the necessary equipment, encouraged her to continue with karate, which she considered as God's plan for her.

Ivy's parents, being her biggest source of strength, made sacrifices to support her karate career. As the eldest of four siblings, she credits her family for their unwavering support and sacrifices. During the medal ceremony, hearing Malaysia's national anthem played on the podium was a moment Ivy would cherish forever. She was initially surprised, thinking she had lost to the Iranian athlete in the adjacent arena. However, she felt relieved and proud when the actual score was announced.

This victory was particularly meaningful for Ivy, as she had only managed a bronze at the previous Malaysia Games (Sukma). This success on the international stage was a testament to her determination, having trained twice a day, six days a week. Ivy expressed that winning the gold medal for Sabah was a proud moment for the people of Sabah.

Although the journey had its sacrifices, including injuries, long distances from her family, and financial challenges, Ivy remained unwavering in her pursuit of excellence. Her triumph in Jordan was not the end of her journey, but rather a stepping stone to further achievements. Ivy summed up her victory with three words: patience, faith, and 'onsoi', a Murut word meaning 'good' or 'fine' commonly spoken in Sabah.