BANGKOK: From making his SEA Games debut as a 15-year-old in 1997 to standing atop the podium 28 years later, Sarawak’s Ong Chee Kheng finally captured his elusive SEA Games gold after winning the men’s individual trap event.
The 43-year-old shooter from Miri produced a composed performance at the Photharam Shooting Range in Ratchaburi on Tuesday, scoring 39 points to outclass his regional rivals and deliver Malaysia its first gold in the event since 1993.
The Philippines’ Hagen Topacio settled for silver with 38 points, while Singapore’s Andreas Boki took bronze with a total of 30.
Chee Kheng’s victory marked a personal milestone after years of persistence at the regional level, having previously won bronze at the 2019 SEA Games in Manila.
The Sarawakian collected silver and bronze medals across his six SEA Games appearances, making Tuesday’s triumph his first gold on the biggest stage in Southeast Asia.
“The first one was in 1997, then 2001, 2005, 2019, 2023, and now 2025,” he said.
Reflecting on his long journey, Chee Kheng credited his family, particularly his parents, for their unwavering support throughout his career.
“I dedicate this win to my family, especially my parents. They have always supported and encouraged me from the beginning,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted on Wednesday night.
Chee Kheng, whose first SEA Games appearance was in Indonesia in 1997, has been competing in the sport since the age of 15.
What began as a childhood hobby grew into a lifelong passion, influenced by his father, who was also a competitive shooter.
“It all started with my parents teaching us how to handle guns. My dad was a competitive shooter back then, but not at a high state level,” he added.
Despite the sport’s limited exposure and resources, Chee Kheng remained committed, even building his own shooting range to train independently while balancing his career in the firearms business.
Looking ahead, the veteran shooter believes the future of the sport in Sarawak is promising, with new facilities expected to be developed in Kuching ahead of the 2027 SEA Games.
“Petra Jaya is going to have three full ranges for trap and escape clay targets. I believe there will be new blood coming through,” he said.
When asked about a message to aspiring shooters, Chee Kheng kept it simple: never give up.
“Don’t give up. No matter your age, never give up on your dream,” he added.
