Kuala lumpur: Cambodia SEA Games double gold medallist Tan Cheong Min faces a tougher challenge at the 2025 edition in Thailand, as her three pet events have been combined into one. She noted the change, explaining that Nanquan, Nandao, and Nangun were previously either separate or a combination of two events.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cheong Min stated, “In Cambodia, I struck gold in the Nanquan and the combined Nandao-Nangun events. This time, in Thailand, they are combining all three events.” She acknowledged the challenge, recognizing that Southeast Asian nations have talented exponents capable of podium finishes. Despite the new format’s increased difficulty, Cheong Min is confident and determined to uphold Malaysia’s status as a regional wushu superpower.

Cheong Min emphasized that she and her teammates are diligently preparing over the next two months to perfect their routines and address weaknesses identified during last month’s World Wushu Championships in Brasilia. “Although we are familiar with the new competition rules, we still need to step up our preparations. Since returning from the World Wushu Championships, we have analyzed our every mistake and are modifying our routines to ensure we perform at the highest level at the Thailand SEA Games,” she said.

Besides the individual event, Cheong Min will also compete in the team event. The Wushu Federation of Malaysia has set a modest target of one gold medal at the biennial Games, with Cheong Min being their main hope. The 2025 Thailand SEA Games are scheduled to take place from December 9-20.