KUALA LUMPUR, 15 December: Malaysia’s petanque squad closed out their campaign at the 33rd Thailand SEA Games by adding two bronze medals, highlighted by a valiant showing from the men’s triples team against hosts Thailand at Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University.
In the men’s triples, Khairul Amirul Zamrulhisham, Mohamad Muqri Arif Mohamad Sapiny and Syed Afiq Fakhri Syed Ali rose to the occasion in their last-four encounter, matching the regional powerhouse shot for shot and even drawing level at 8–8 and 11-11 before eventually going down 11-13.
The Malaysians stayed competitive throughout the contest and pushed Thailand deep into the match, underlining the progress they have made after recovering impressively in the qualifying rounds to secure a place among the top four teams.
Malaysia’s women’s triples team of Jasmina Jasmine Johan, Nur Durratul Sahira Yazit and Thadis Henhera Vennice also secured bronze after falling 6-13 to Thailand in their final-four clash.
Reflecting on the outcome, team captain Jasmina expressed gratitude while acknowledging the disappointment of missing out on a place in the final.
“We tried our best, but unfortunately it was not meant to be this time. Although my teammates are still young, they showed great maturity in their performance.
“I would like to apologise to all petanque supporters for not being able to reach the final, and at the same time thank the management and coaches for the trust they placed in us.”
Jasmina also admitted she had hoped this would be the edition that finally delivered her elusive SEA Games gold, but accepted that it was not meant to be, adding that she remains determined to keep trying.
