Sukma: Three young Johor archers pulled off a major upset by defeating defending champions Kedah to win the women's team recurve gold at the 2026 Selangor Malaysia Games (SUKMA) today. Making the achievement even sweeter, Nurin Iman Mohamed Sham, Nawal Buthainah Daing Muhamad Azmi, and Nur Ayra Mahirah Rosihan Anwar had not initially been targeted to win a medal.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, competing at the National Institute of Valuation (INSPEN) Stadium, the Johor team followed up their surprise victory over Perlis in the semi-finals by defeating Kedah 6-2 in the final. This victory secured Johor's first gold medal in archery at this edition of the Games. Nurin Iman expressed that the achievement was particularly meaningful as even the team had not expected to reach the final, let alone defeat the defending champions.

Nurin Iman shared her disbelief at their journey, stating, "We never expected to win gold for the team. In the semi-finals, we faced a very strong Perlis side, and at that point, we could not believe that we had beaten them." Her emotions were palpable as she described the overwhelming joy of their victory in the final, where she felt like crying from happiness.

The victory was doubly satisfying given that it was Johor's first gold medal in archery at the Games. "This victory is very important because Johor had not won a gold medal so far. So, we are very proud to have delivered a gold medal for Johor in archery," Nurin Iman added, highlighting the significance of their accomplishment.

In the final, Kedah's team of Ku Nurin Afiqah Ku Ruzaini, Nur Auni Aqilah Andri, and Nur Auni Firdina Wafiqah Noor started strong by winning the first end. However, they were unable to maintain their momentum, allowing Johor to come back and win the next three ends. Nurin Iman emphasized that their young age was not a barrier to success, noting that confidence and the ability to control their technique were crucial factors.

She dedicated the achievement to everyone who had supported them throughout their journey, acknowledging the sacrifices made in terms of finances, training, and equipment provision.