National Sepak Takraw Squad Ends 36-Year Gold Medal Drought

Malaysia’s men’s sepak takraw squad ended a 36-year wait for the Asian Games team regu gold medal after defeating Thailand 2-0 in the final of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games moments ago.

At the Nagoya City Mizuho Arena, the triumph repeated Malaysia’s historic achievement at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, when the national squad also defeated Thailand in the final to claim gold in the same event.

Malaysia got off to a winning start through the first regu of Mohammad Syahir Mohd Rosdi, Farhan Adam and Mohamad Azlan Alias, who defeated Thailand’s Marukin Phanmakon, Putawan Sopa and Pornthep Tingbangbon.

Despite being made to work hard after losing the second set 5-15, the Malaysian trio bounced back in the deciding set to secure a 15-9, 5-15, 15-11 victory and give Malaysia the first point.

The second regu of Muhammad Zulkifli Abd Razak, Aidil Aiman Azwawi and Muhammad Afifudin Razali then completed Malaysia’s mission by defeating Kritsanapong Nontakote, Tanaphon Sapyen and Wuttinu Kamsanor 15-13, 15-10.

The victory also marked Malaysia’s second consecutive win over Thailand in a team regu final, having also defeated their rivals at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand last December.

The sepak takraw triumph also delivered Malaysia’s fourth gold medal at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games.

Sinar Harian