Malaysia Ends 36-Year Wait for Asian Games Sepak Takraw Gold
Malaysia ended a 36-year wait for Asian Games men's team regu sepak takraw gold after defeating Thailand 2–0 at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games.
Malaysia Ends 36-Year Wait for Asian Games Sepak Takraw Gold
Malaysia has ended a 36-year wait for Asian Games men's team regu sepak takraw gold, defeating Thailand 2–0 in the final of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games.
The victory on 25 September 2026 was a major moment for Malaysian sepak takraw, as the country's previous gold in the men's team regu event came at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games. Remarkably, Thailand was also Malaysia's opponent in that final.
Malaysia Defeats Thailand 2–0
The final was held at Paloma Mizuho Arena in Nagoya, Japan, with Malaysia needing two regu victories to secure the gold medal.
The first regu featured Mohammad Syahir Mohd Rosdi, Farhan Adam and Mohamad Azlan Alias.
Malaysia won the first set 15–9 before Thailand fought back to take the second set 15–5. Malaysia then regained control in the deciding set, winning 15–11.
The second regu then completed the job. Zulkifli Abd Razak, Muhammad Afifuddin Mohd Razali and Aidil Aiman Azwawi defeated Thailand 15–13 and 15–10.
Malaysia therefore secured the final 2–0, without needing a third regu.
36 Years After Beijing 1990
The significance of the victory comes from the long wait between Malaysia's previous and latest Asian Games gold.
Malaysia last won the men's team regu event at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games. Thirty-six years later, the national team returned to the top of the podium.
Even more fittingly, Thailand was once again the opponent in the final.
| Asian Games | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 Beijing | Thailand | Malaysia won gold |
| 2026 Aichi-Nagoya | Thailand | Malaysia won 2–0 |
The result adds another memorable chapter to the long-running Malaysia–Thailand rivalry in sepak takraw.
A Full-Circle Story for Ahmad Jais Baharun
One of the most interesting parts of the story is national head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun.
Ahmad Jais was part of Malaysia's gold-medal winning team as a player at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games.
Thirty-six years later, he was involved again, this time guiding the national team as coach.
His journey connects Malaysia's previous Asian Games gold with the latest generation of players, making the 2026 victory a particularly meaningful moment for Malaysian sepak takraw.
The Golden Tigers
Following the Asian Games triumph, the national sepak takraw squad was officially given the nickname “The Golden Tigers.”
The name was announced by Sepaktakraw Association of Malaysia president Datuk Mohd Sumali Redzuan following the team's success.
The new identity comes at an important time for Malaysian sepak takraw, with the national team achieving notable results across several major competitions.
Malaysia's Recent Sepak Takraw Success
The Asian Games gold is part of a wider run of strong results for Malaysia.
At the 2025 SEA Games, Malaysia also defeated Thailand in the men's team regu final, winning 2–1.
Earlier in 2026, Malaysia was also declared team regu champion at the Sepak Takraw World Cup in Kuala Lumpur after Thailand withdrew during the final.
These results show Malaysia's continued presence among the leading sepak takraw teams in Southeast Asia.
Why Sepak Takraw Matters to Malaysia
Sepak takraw is closely connected to Southeast Asian sporting culture.
Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and several other countries in the region have long competed at the highest level of the sport.
For Malaysian fans, sepak takraw is more than just a competitive game. Its fast rallies, powerful kicks and acrobatic movements have made it one of the region's most distinctive sports.
The 2026 Asian Games victory also gives a new generation of Malaysians another reason to discover and appreciate the sport.
What Is Team Regu in Sepak Takraw?
A team regu consists of three players on court.
Players generally have different roles:
- Tekong – serves from the back of the court
- Feeder – sets the ball for attacking plays
- Attacker – attempts to finish rallies and score points
Players cannot use their hands, so timing, balance, flexibility and coordination are essential.
At international level, rallies can move extremely quickly, with players performing powerful jumps and attacking kicks over the net.
A New Chapter for Malaysian Sepak Takraw
The 2026 Asian Games victory is significant because it connects two generations of Malaysian sepak takraw.
The 1990 team created a memorable chapter in Malaysian sporting history. Now, 36 years later, the 2026 squad has created its own.
With the national team now carrying the “Golden Tigers” identity, the Asian Games gold could become an important milestone for the next generation of Malaysian players.
For travellers discovering Malaysia, sporting achievements like this also offer a glimpse into the country's culture beyond its famous food, islands and landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Malaysia last win Asian Games sepak takraw gold before 2026?
Malaysia's previous men's team regu gold came at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games.
Who did Malaysia beat in the 2026 final?
Malaysia defeated Thailand 2–0 in the men's team regu final.
Where was the 2026 final held?
The final was held at Paloma Mizuho Arena in Nagoya, Japan.
Why is it called a 36-year wait?
Malaysia won the previous men's team regu Asian Games gold in 1990, before winning the event again in 2026.
What is Malaysia's new sepak takraw nickname?
The national squad was officially given the nickname “The Golden Tigers” following the 2026 Asian Games victory.
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Sources
- Bernama – Malaysia Ends 36-Year Wait for Asian Games Sepak Takraw Gold
- RTM – Sepak Takraw Negara Akhiri Kemarau 36 Tahun
- Bernama – The Golden Tigers
- Olympic Council of Asia – Aichi-Nagoya 2026
- Malay Mail – Malaysia Ends 36-Year Wait for Asian Games Sepak Takraw Gold
- Scoop – Ahmad Jais Completes Golden Circle as Player and Coach