Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
IT was a successful campaign for the national pencak silat team at the 31st Southeast Asian (SEA) Games as they delivered one silver and one bronze medals.
The trio of Anisah Najihah Abdullah, Norleyermah Hj Raya and Nur Wasiqah Aziemah Rosimah finished runners-up in the women’s seni regu event after falling to hosts Vietnam 9.965 – 9.915 in the final on Wednesday.
Brunei had a favourable draw to start in the semi-finals of the six-team event at the Bac Tu Liem Sporting Hall.
They advanced to the gold medal match after edging Malaysia on time difference with both amassing 9.930 points in the semis on Tuesday.
Anisah, who is set to lead Brunei out during the opening ceremony on Thursday evening, is proud of the team.
“We were one step away from winning the gold for Brunei but luck wasn't on our side,” said Anisah in an interview with BruSports News.
“But overall, I am very proud with my team's performance and truly grateful for winning this medal.
“It still feels surreal but it is all done now and I am more than excited to wave that Brunei flag (during the opening ceremony),” She added.
Wasiqah also share the same sentiments in regards to their podium finish.
“Despite feeling unwell during the match, I feel very proud and satisfied with our results,” chimed Wasiqah.
On the other hand, Norleyermah was pleased with the result having only targeted to be at her best during competition.
“Alhamdulillah. I’m grateful that we managed to make it into the final because I had only wanted to do the best that I could and it became a reality,” she said.
Meanwhile, the bronze medal was courtesy of Muhammad Ali Saifullah Abdullah Muhammad Suhaimi in the men’s seni tunggal event.
He had secured a podium finish after defeating Edmar Tacuel of the Philippines with a score of 9.935 – 9.925.
The debutant was then stopped in his tracks by eventual winner Muhd Iqbal Abdul Rahman of Singapore in the semi-finals.
“I feel very grateful because this is the first time for me in representing the country at the SEA Games,” said Saifullah.
“Alhamdulillah. I managed to return the selection by winning a medal for Brunei,” he concluded.
