SEA Deaf Games: ‘Malaysia Boleh’ Cheers Accompany 16th Gold In Jakarta

From Farah Najihah Zuraimi

JAKARTA, Aug 24 (Bernama) —Loud cheers of “Malaysia Boleh” echoed through GOR Pulo Gadung as national mixed doubles pair Edmund Teo Seng Keong-Boon Wei Ying fought back with extraordinary spirit to defeat the host pair, clinching the much-awaited 16th gold medal for the Malaysian contingent at the SEA Deaf Games 2025.

In the thrilling final, the Malaysian duo came out strong from the start to overcome Indonesian pair Christian Agustinus Abas-Dzakiyya Amalia Ma’ruf, who were also silver medallists in the 2022 edition,  with a 21-7, 26-24 victory to ensure Malaysia reached the target of 16 golds set at the beginning of the Games.

This golden moment not only ended the wait for the contingent’s 16th gold medal but also injected new spirit into the entire Malaysian squad to continue to shine in Jakarta in the remaining events.

Edmund, when met by reporters after the match, described the victory as the result of their confidence and determination to fight until the very end.

“The match against Indonesia was indeed very intense, especially in the second set when they changed their playing style. But we just thought not to be pressured, to stay focused and believe we could win. Thank God we finally managed to bring home the gold for Malaysia,” he said emotionally.

Meanwhile, Wei Ying expressed gratitude to those who continuously supported the nation’s deaf athletes.

“Thank you to the National Sports Council, National Sports Institute, KBS (Ministry of Youth and Sports), sponsors and all Malaysians. This victory is for all of you. We promise to continue giving our very best for the country,” she said.

For Malaysia’s Chef de Mission, Sarkunan Balakrisnan, the historic moment was one of immense pride after long awaiting the milestone of achieving the 16-gold target.

“I am truly proud… today’s badminton match with Indonesia was extremely intense. My hope for the 16th gold medal has finally come true. This is the greatest success we have achieved in bringing glory to Malaysia,” he said full of emotion.

Even sweeter, the mixed doubles’ triumph came as Malaysia still have chances to add to their gold medal tally through the ongoing bowling and chess events.

With this historic achievement, the Malaysian contingent not only fulfilled their promise but also proved that the fighting spirit of the nation’s deaf athletes can elevate Malaysia’s honour and reputation on the international stage.

-- BERNAMA