KUALA LUMPUR: Two of Malaysia’s young squash prospects, Ainaa Amani, 23, and Low Wa Sern, 19, are entering the 2025 SEA Games with their sights set on gold.
The pair will make their SEA Games debut, representing the country in women’s singles and jumbo doubles events, respectively.
Ainaa said the national team’s preparations are on track after weeks of intensive training. “Alhamdulillah, preparations are going well, and I hope we can maintain this momentum through the SEA Games,” she said.
While excited about the upcoming games, she admitted the pressure is high. “I’ve played at the Commonwealth Games before, so I feel more ready, but the target is bigger this time, so the pressure is still there,” she added.
The 23-year-old, who has won the SEA Championship three times, said the SEA Games would be more challenging than past regional competitions.
“It’s the region’s biggest stage. Even if many opponents are familiar, my goal is to give my best and win gold,” she said.
Wa Sern described the opportunity to represent Malaysia as a great honour. However, the 19-year-old said the short preparation time is a key challenge, particularly for the jumbo doubles event with partner Harith Daniel.
“Harith will return in two days, and we have less than two weeks to prepare. Our focus is on building the best possible synergy,” he said.
He added that jumbo doubles is a new experience and requires rapid adjustment.
“It’s very different from singles, but as long as we control our strength and adapt to the larger court, everything should be fine,” he said.
Both players met with the national deputy chef-de-mission to the 2025 SEA Games, Datuk Kenny Goh, ahead of the tournament. – TVS
