BANGKOK: Sarawakian silat athlete Ummi Mashitah Hassan edged closer to SEA Games gold after a narrow 91-89 victory over Indonesia’s Dinda Nuraidha to secure a place in the final of the pencak silat Class C (55–60kg) event, here today (Dec 16).
Competing in her first major international tournament, Ummi, from Miri, described the semifinal as a huge opportunity.
“This is my first major game. I want to reach the final and win the gold,” she told reporters after her fight.
When asked about the intensity of the match, Ummi acknowledged the tough challenge posed by her Indonesian opponent.
“Indonesia is among the top teams in silat. But I managed to win against her,” she said.
She added that her game plan had also been effective.
“Alhamdulillah, it worked. I tried to apply everything the coach instructed me to do, and thankfully I was able to do so.”
Ummi said she struggled with fatigue and feeling unwell in the final moments but relied on her coach’s advice to regain momentum.
“But I caught up by listening to the coach’s advice. Following the coach’s instructions is important, especially in the last moments of the game.”
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s final, she expressed confidence in her readiness.
“InsyaAllah, I am ready for the final tomorrow. I will give my all and do my best for Malaysia.”
