IPOH, Oct 4 (Bernama) -- Ending Malaysia’s 36-year wait for the men’s team regu gold medal at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Sept 25 was the sweetest and most priceless moment for national apit kiri (feeder) Amirul Zazwan Amir throughout his career with the national squad.
The 31-year-old, fondly known as Ayong, said the historic success in Japan would motivate him to maintain his performance and help Malaysia achieve further success.
“I have always dreamed of winning an Asian Games gold medal. When we managed to end the 36-year wait, it became a priceless piece of history for me personally.
“For me, winning the gold medal also proved that this squad is among the best ever formed in the history of Malaysian sepak takraw,” he told reporters after the introduction of the players and launch of the official Perak Bison 2026 jersey here today.
The gold medal was secured after the Golden Tigers defeated Thailand 2-0 in a thrilling match at the Poloma Mizuho Arena.
The last time Malaysia won gold in the team regu event was at the 1990 edition in Beijing, where they also defeated traditional rivals Thailand.
Amirul Zazwan said the understanding among the players and the coach’s tactical strategy were key factors behind the national squad’s success.
“We have played together for a long time, so everyone knows the role and strengths of their teammates. The tactics devised by the coach also worked well because of this understanding,” he said.
On his move to Perak Bison this season, the former Kuala Lumpur (KL) Thunder player described it as an effort to test his abilities while gaining new experience with last season’s Sepak Takraw League (STL) defending champions.
“I hope to give my best performance and, with the experience I have, also help Perak Bison retain the title this season,” he said.
-- BERNAMA