KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak sprinter Jonathan Nyepa is gearing up for both the 100m and 4×100m events at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, despite the individual sprint not being his primary target this season.
The Bumi Kenyalang athlete said his focus throughout the year has been on the 4×100m relay, but his performances earned him a late call-up for the 100m.
“For the 100m, I didn’t set big targets because my main focus was the 4×100m. Azim and Danish were originally listed, but Azim didn’t meet the qualifying mark, so my name was added,” he told reporters after a session with National Athletics head coach Manshahar Abdul Jalil and Malaysian contingent chief Nurul Huda Abdullah last weekend.
Acknowledging the stiff competition in Southeast Asia, Jonathan said he is excited to test himself against the fastest sprinters in the region.
“I want to give my best and push myself. Opportunities like this don’t come often,” he said.
This will mark his third appearance in the blue-ribbon sprint at the SEA Games, having previously competed in 2017 and 2019. Jonathan is currently at peak fitness and confirmed he is free from injury.
He is optimistic about Malaysia’s 4×100m relay squad and their medal prospects.
“In the 4×100m, we have a real chance to win, but it depends on our performance on the day. Our goal is definitely to bring home a medal,” he said.
The SEA Games Thailand 2025 will open in Bangkok on Dec 9 with Jonathan aiming to leave a strong mark in both individual and relay events. – TVS
