KUCHING: It was a poignant moment for Sarawak’s Natalie Shu Eng Sim as she secured another gold medal in the squash mixed doubles team event during her final appearance at the Malaysia Games (Sukma).
Teaming up with Harith Danial Jefri, the pair continued their gold-winning streak by defeating Melaka’s Andrik Lim Kai Shan and Thanusaa Uthrian in a gripping match with scores of 11-9, 8-11, and 11-9.
This victory followed their previous gold medal success in Sukma 2022, where they also competed together.
Their strong on-court chemistry, built through mental and physical preparation, played a crucial role in their triumph.
“It’s even more special because this is my last Sukma,” Natalie said to reporters after the medal presentation ceremony.
Meanwhile, Harith expressed his delight at winning the gold medal on home soil.
“It feels amazing, especially winning here in Sarawak and in front of my parents. This is the first time my father has seen me win a major event, so it means a lot,” he said.
In another match, Sarawak’s second mixed doubles team, Altamis Aqhar Sallam A Sufian and Eugenia David, secured the bronze medal after a challenging battle against Sabah’s Tristan Andreas Muyou Angkaus and Doycee Lee Ye San, winning in three sets (11-6, 10-11, and 11-6).
Eugenia, inspired by her brother to take up squash, is proud to end her Sukma journey with a bronze medal, as this is her final year competing.
