For 14-year-old fencing talent Saif Nordin, the journey to sporting greatness is receiving a significant boost with a crucial partnership with the Foundation for Malaysian Sporting Excellence (SportExcel). This tie-up marks a pivotal moment in the development of one of Malaysia’s most promising young athletes. Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar, chairman of SportExcel, underscored the importance of nurturing talents like Saif at an early stage. “Saif is at a pivotal moment in his sporting journey. At 14, crucial decisions about his future are on the horizon. “High-performing athletes are not made overnight; in many cases, it takes a decade or more to cultivate the discipline and skill needed to excel,” he said. SportExcel, established in 1991, has a long history of bridging the gap between corporate sponsorships and the world of sports, providing young athletes with financial support and structured development programmes. Its support has been instrumental in propelling numerous Malaysian athletes to success on the international stage. For Saif, the partnership is both an honour and an opportunity.

“I’m thrilled to be part of the SportExcel family,” Saif shared. “Many high-performance athletes have come up through the ranks with their support, and I aim to follow in their footsteps. My journey is just beginning.” Fencing, a sport featured in the SEA Games, Asian Games, and the Olympics, demands precision, strategy, and resilience. Saif has already represented Malaysia and Selangor in numerous international tournaments. He trains at Touché Fencing Club in Petaling Jaya under the mentorship of head coach Andrew Mok, an International Fencing Federation (FIE)-accredited coach, and former national fencer Mok Chek Wlong. “To compete on this level means we’re up against the best. But no one should say that a Malaysian can’t do it,” Saif said confidently.