The Asian Games test that could make or break Malaysian sports

KUALA LUMPUR: The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games present a crucial opportunity for Malaysia's athletes across six sports to transform potential into podium successes. In diving, veteran Pandelela Rinong will guide a younger squad, aiming to capitalize on her two bronze medals from the 2022 Hangzhou Games. Meanwhile, newcomers Nur Eilisha Rania Abrar Raj and Yong Rui Jie make their debuts in the women's 10m platform events.

Malaysia's equestrian team, led by experienced dressage rider Diani Lee and experienced jumper N. Shoorendran, will rely on their international experience as they seek to build on past successes. In hockey, the Speedy Tigers face high expectations after a disappointing World Cup campaign, with a target of reaching the final and qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The karate team, without its 2022 Hangzhou gold medalist Arif Affifudin Malik due to injury, will aim for at least one gold medal, with five athletes competing in the kumite event. Weightlifters Syahmi Nor Ghazali and Erry Hidayat, both Commonwealth Games champions, will compete despite the challenge of a tougher Asian field. Wushu athletes will target two medals, with the team's success in Aichi-Nagoya crucial to Malaysia's overall medal aspirations.