KUALA LUMPUR — Riding high on their best-ever showing at the Under-18 Asian Junior Championships, Malaysia’s young bowlers are now bracing themselves for a bigger challenge — the Asian Youth Championships on home soil later this month.
The national team wrapped up their campaign in Doha on Saturday in style, winning two Masters golds courtesy of Qurratu’ain Izdihar Pozi and Aqil Faizal to finish with a total of seven gold, one silver, and five bronze medals — more than enough to secure the overall champions’ title.
Qurratu’ain was the standout performer of the tournament, becoming the first Malaysian to sweep all five gold medals on offer in the girls’ division — singles, doubles, team, all-events, and Masters — while Aqil contributed two golds, including the boys’ team event.
However, there will be little time for rest, as the focus now shifts to the Under-21 Asian Youth Championships, where Malaysia will face an even more competitive field, including Singapore, which did not send a team to Doha.
Team manager Maradona Chok, who is also the secretary-general of the Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC), said the juniors’ success has set the tone for what’s to come.
“I’m very happy with the performance of the team — winning the overall title was our target, and we achieved it!” Maradona told Scoop.
“Bringing home seven gold, one silver, and five bronze medals is no easy feat. Our young bowlers gave their all, fought with heart, and supported each other every step of the way.
“Truly an amazing team, and I’m deeply honoured to be among them.”
Maradona confirmed that several bowlers from the Doha squad — including Wan Zarif Mazlan, Adelia Nur Syazalee, and Qurratu’ain — will also feature in the Under-21 meet, which will be held at Sunway Mega Lanes from August 20 to 28.
“Next up is the Asian Youth Championships on home soil, and the competition is going to be a lot tougher. But this win will inspire the team to fight all the way,” he added.
At the previous Asian Youth in Thailand two years ago, Malaysia finished fourth overall with one gold medal, three silver and three bronze. — August 3, 2025