KUCHING: Debutants from East Kalimantan, Karina Ria Hardianti and Ramanda Zibrilian Ramadhani, are making their mark at the Borneo Games Kuching 2025, impressed by Sarawak’s clean, orderly city, and already overcoming nerves in mixed doubles.
The pair, partnering in the badminton event for the first time, spoke positively about their experience in Sarawak so far.
“Overall, Sarawak is quite nice, clean and comfortable, although a bit hot,” said Karina, 26.
Ramanda, 20, agreed, noting that the city is well-organised and tidy.
Despite being newcomers, the duo displayed poise on the court in their first mixed doubles match here at the Games.
Karina admitted there were some initial challenges, as they were a bit nervous and not fully in sync because it was their first time partnering, but they managed to adjust and pull through.
Ramanda added that understanding each other’s playing style was key.
“We hadn’t played together before, so we had to quickly figure out our rhythm. The first game was tough, but we stayed focused and overcame it,” the pair told Sarawak Tribune at Stadium Perpaduan today.
Both players have been passionate about badminton from a young age.
Karina started playing at age 11 and counts Chinese doubles specialist, Huang Ya Qiong, among her favourites, while Ramanda picked up the sport in primary school, idolising national star, Kevin Sanjaya.
Looking ahead, the pair could face Sabah in their next match.
“It doesn’t matter who we play against; we’ll give our best and keep moving forward,” said Karina confidently.
