YOUNGSTER Ng Jing Xuan is steadily making her mark in Malaysian athletics, her warm smile and lively personality reflecting the character behind her rising success.
She has become Malaysia’s first female athlete to surpass the 50-metre mark, delivering a 52.17m throw to win silver in the women’s javelin at the 2025 SEA Games.
Thailand’s Wichaidit Jariya claimed gold with a best throw of 55.64m, while the Philippines’ Espenilla Ana Bhianca secured bronze with 51.66m.
Earlier this year, at the 86th Singapore Open Track & Field Championships, Jing Xuan opened her 2026 campaign with another silver medal, recording a best effort of 47.49m in a competitive field.
The 21-year-old from Pujut, Miri, began her athletics journey at the age of 13 while studying at SMK Chung Hua Miri.
She is currently in Mokpo, South Korea, competing at the Asian Throwing Championships from May 2 to May 3.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to her about her javelin journey, from grassroots beginnings to international success and historic, record-breaking achievements on the big stage.
Sarawak Tribune: You started at 13 — do you remember the exact moment you fell in love with javelin?
Ng Jing Xuan: I still remember it very clearly — it was when I first broke the MSS Miri record. That moment made me realise I had something special in javelin, and from then on, I truly fell in love with the sport.
Tribune: Growing up in Miri, what were the biggest challenges in pursuing athletics at a high level?
Jing Xuan: One of the biggest challenges was the lack of international competition and exposure. It’s harder to gauge your level and improve when you don’t have enough opportunities to compete beyond the local scene.
Tribune: Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up? What kept you going?
Jing Xuan: Yes — when I was 16, I began shifting my focus more towards my studies. Then during the MCO period, all sports activities stopped, and I had no choice but to fully commit to academics.
I ended up achieving straight A’s in SPM, which I’m very proud of. After that, I was able to refocus on my sport with a clearer mindset and stronger discipline.
Tribune: Who has been your biggest pillar of support throughout this journey?
Jing Xuan: Definitely my family. Their unwavering support has always been my foundation, especially during difficult times.
Tribune: You broke the national record at the 2025 SEA Games. What was going through your mind just before and after the 52.17m throw?
Jing Xuan: Before the throw, I was fully focused and trusted my training. After it, I felt proud, but also motivated to keep pushing further.
Tribune: Do you feel a responsibility now as a role model for young girls, especially from Sarawak?
Jing Xuan: Yes, I do feel that responsibility. I want more people — especially young girls from Sarawak, to know about javelin and be inspired to try it.
Tribune: What does a “normal day” look like for you when you’re not training?
Jing Xuan: A normal day is all about rest and recovery — allowing my body to reset so I can perform better in the next session.
Tribune: How do you want people to remember your journey?
Jing Xuan: I want people to remember my name. When they hear “Ng Jing Xuan,” they immediately know who I am and what I’ve achieved.
