Former karate champ R. Sharmendran leads national squad

Renowned former national karate champion R. Sharmendran, with a stellar record of four gold medals at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, has officially assumed the role of head coach for Malaysia’s national development squad. The Malaysia Karate Federation (Makaf) extended the invitation, offering Sharmendran a two-year contract in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport.

At 32, Sharmendran aims to leverage his extensive experience to nurture and develop aspiring karate athletes in Malaysia. His primary focus is on assembling a competitive team to prepare for the upcoming 2027 SEA Games, scheduled to be held in Kuala Lumpur.

Sharmendran’s illustrious career includes securing four gold medals in the men’s Kumite below-75kg category at the SEA Games held in Kuala Lumpur (2017), Manila (2019), Hanoi (2022), and Phnom Penh (2023). Despite facing significant challenges, including six surgeries on his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) over nine years, Sharmendran retired from active competition last year. However, his passion for karate has led him to embrace coaching as a means of contributing to the sport’s future.

Commitment to nurturing future karate talents

Sharmendran’s coaching approach is dynamic and friendly, aiming to establish a strong bond with the players. He acknowledged the importance of cultivating new talents, especially considering the aging composition of the national squad. Working closely with former national captain Hatta Mahamut, Sharmendran is in the process of forming a young and dynamic squad for the upcoming SEA Games.

“I’m going to ensure that they win as many gold medals in the SEA Games as possible, as we will be playing in front of our home crowd. We don’t want to disappoint our fans,” Sharmendran stated, emphasizing his commitment to shaping the future of Malaysian karate.

Sharmendran expressed gratitude towards Makaf president Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad for the opportunity and affirmed his commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the president’s directives and striving to achieve the organization’s collective goals.

Despite the two-year contract duration, Sharmendran’s focus remains on imparting his knowledge and experience to the younger generation. He views this opportunity as a means to give back to his community and ensure the future success of Malaysian karate.

Makaf’s incentive scheme

Meanwhile, the Malaysia Karate Federation (Makaf) has announced monthly allowances for athletes who achieve a top-five ranking globally, effective this year. President Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad stated that this initiative aims to motivate athletes to strive for excellence and contribute to future successes. Currently, C. Shahmalarani ranks 20th globally, while Muhammad Arif Afifuddin Ab Malik holds the 40th position.

During the annual Makaf Meeting 2024, Nur Azmi presented incentives totaling RM20,000 to five athletes who contributed to Malaysia’s medal haul in 2023 and early 2024. These athletes include Muhammad Arif, Shahmalarani, Lovelly Ann Roberth, Niathalia Sherawinnie Yampil, and Naccy Elly Evvaferra Rojin, who showcased remarkable performances in various international competitions.