New Straits Times

Pesaka bank on world class exponents for glory

- Sukhairi Thani

will make its Asian Games debut in Indonesia later this month.

The Malaysian National Silat Federation (Pesaka) have set a target of one gold, one silver and one bronze which they believe is achievable for their 20 Asian Games-bound exponents.

Malaysia have world class exponents who are good enough to win medals in all 16 discipline­s.

Three-time world champion Mohd Al-Jufferi Jamari, Siti Rahmah Nasir and 2010 world championsh­ips gold medallist Fauzi Khalid are the anchors of the team and are expected to deliver medals.

Others could also spring surprises as they have been training hard.

However, they will need to be psychologi­cally ready as they are expected to brace for a hostile reception from the Indonesian fans in Jakarta.

“We were in Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan recently for intensive training and test bouts, and they did well.

“I have reminded our exponents to focus only on their performanc­e during bouts. It will be challengin­g but our exponents are ready to face all adversitie­s,” said Pesaka general manager Datuk Osman Nok.

Pesaka secretary general Datuk Megat Zulkarnain Omardin is confident that his exponents will be able to perform and do well in upholding the country’s honour and reputation.

“For me, all our exponents have their target, and we too have ours. They need to stay calm and do their best in Jakarta,” said Megat.

 ??  ?? Mohd Al-Jufferi Jamari
Mohd Al-Jufferi Jamari

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