KUALA LUMPUR – In a bold move to shape the future of Malaysian karate, former national karate exponent R. Sharmendran is spearheading a series of elite training camps with the aim of molding the next generation of karate stars.
Sharmendran, 32, is regarded as one of Malaysia’s most accomplished karateka, with four SEA Games gold medals (Kuala Lumpur 2017, Manila 2019, Hanoi 2022, and Phnom Penh 2023).
He currently leads the national development squad on a two-year contract with the Malaysia Karate Federation (Makaf).
The governing body has entrusted him with the challenging task of assembling a young, formidable team for the 2027 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
Having undergone six anterior cruciate ligament surgeries over nine years, Sharmendran was forced to retire from the sport last year.
The camp, organised by Kikokan Karate Club in Seri Kembangan which is owned by Sharmendran, has so far attracted 47 young athletes from Penang, Perlis, Pahang, Terengganu, Selangor, Polis Diraja Malaysia Karate Club, and several others.
Speaking to Scoop, Sharmendran said the camps will allow him to instill knowledge he gained over the years, which he aims to pass on to the younger generation.
He also said that he believes all talents, despite their background or affiliation to states, deserve a chance to play the sport and be well-versed in the basics.
“The camp was great and the reception I received was exceptional. It’s important for these talents to be moulded so they can easily transition into the national team in the years to come.
“At the same time, most of the athletes only get to train with their own clubs and state associations. Hence, they tend to only spar with each other.
“By getting all these athletes together, they will be able to compete with each other and learn from each other, which will also raise their standards.
“By doing this, I would also like to create an internal positive rivalry among the athletes. As a former national athlete myself, it’s my duty to educate them on the importance of proper nutrition before competing. Many young athletes are not aware of what they should and should not consume before a competition.
“Through this camp, I also hope to see other national athletes join hands with me and support this initiative. I’m always open to collaboration, and let’s continue to build strong future talents for the nation,” said Sharmendran when contacted.
Malaysia have been a powerhouse in karate at the SEA Games since it was introduced in the 1987 edition in Jakarta, winning a total of 126 medals to date.
Aside from the SEA Games, karate has been one of the main medal prospects for Malaysia at the Asian Games.
Malaysia collected a total of 31 karate medals in the Asian Games, comprising eight golds, seven silvers, and 16 bronzes, placing the nation fourth in the all-time medal standings. – July 30, 2024