Penang: Behind the success of Amir Daniel Abdul Majeed in delivering Malaysia's first-ever gold medal in judo at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games lies the great sacrifice of his coach Md Nashriq Md Nasir. Md Nashriq, 41, said that time with his wife and four children had to be sacrificed to realise the dream of producing a champion.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Md Nashriq explained that their training regime involved extensive travel, including three weeks in Mongolia and another week in Qingdao, China, before heading to the Commonwealth Games. Immediately after their return, they are set to participate in SUKMA (Malaysia Games) and then prepare for the Asian Games.
Md Nashriq highlighted the personal sacrifices made by his family, noting that his wife, Nur Fadhila Abdul Manaf, 38, changed careers to work from home to better manage their four children, aged between two and 13, due to his frequent absences. Having coached Amir Daniel since the athlete was five years old, Md Nashriq emphasized that the success in Glasgow was the result of long-term discipline and rigorous training.
He commended Amir Daniel's dedication, particularly in overcoming an injury earlier this year that sidelined him for nearly three months. Despite this setback, Amir Daniel returned to competition in June, showcasing resilience and determination.
The coach expressed hope that Amir Daniel's achievement would motivate young Malaysian athletes to aspire for global success. Upon returning from Glasgow, Amir Daniel and Md Nashriq received a warm welcome at Penang International Airport from the Penang State Sports Council, family, friends, and state officials, including Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.
On August 2, Amir Daniel made history by defeating South African Timothy Meuwsen to secure gold in the men's under-81kg category, building on his bronze in the under-73kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Daniel Gooi announced that Amir Daniel would receive recognition under the state's Sports Victory Incentive Scheme, with the reward amount to be disclosed by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Amir Daniel expressed gratitude for the reception and shared his joy with family and friends. As a Universiti Sains Malaysia student, he plans to resume training immediately for the upcoming Asian Games in September and aims for long-term goals, including qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.