Silat, a traditional martial art deeply ingrained in Southeast Asian culture, has long been a symbol of strength and discipline. Now, a Malaysian athlete has brought global recognition to the sport with a historic victory on the world stage.
Photo via Facebook (Megat Zulkarnain TanSri Omardin)
Thamaraj Vasudevan has become the first Malaysian Indian to win gold at the World Pencak Silat Championship. The event, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), saw Thamaraj triumph in the freestyle men’s category after defeating Uzbekistan’s Khudoyberdiev Diyorbek.
The news was shared by Datuk Megat Zulkarnain Megat Omardin, Political Secretary to Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Selangor Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman.
Taking to Facebook, he expressed his pride in Thamaraj’s accomplishment, writing: “History was made in Abu Dhabi, UAE. For the first time in world history, a Malaysian Indian Silat participant, V Thamaraj, won the gold medal and became the world champion for the freestyle men’s category, after defeating a Silat participant from Uzbekistan. Congratulations, Thamaraj.”
Sejarah Tercipta Di Abu Dhabi, UAE, Buat Kali Pertama Dlm Sejarah Dunia, Pesilat Malaysia Berbangsa Tamil, V Thamaraj...
Posted by Megat Zulkarnain TanSri Omardin on Sunday 22 December 2024
The post included a heartfelt photo of Datuk Megat Zulkarnain embracing Thamaraj, a moment that symbolised both national pride and personal achievement.
Thamaraj’s win is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the diversity and inclusivity within the sport of Silat. His dedication and hard work have inspired many, breaking barriers and proving that determination knows no boundaries.
Congratulations to Thamaraj Vasudevan for making history and bringing glory to Malaysia!