TAKANABE, MIYAZAKI (Japan) — The Labuan Karate team delivered a powerhouse performance at the 24th Universal Shotokan Karate Union (USKU) International Open Karate Championship 2026, clinching a total of eight medals on the world stage.
The island’s exponents showcased exceptional grit and skill throughout the three-day tournament held from March 27 to 29, returning home with two gold, two silver, and four bronze medals.
The medal haul began with a dominant display in the Senior Team Kata category. The trio of Syarulniza Abdul Jamil, Nur Aleesya Dayana Asmadie, and Nur Ariesya Dayana Asmadie secured the first gold medal for Labuan with a synchronized performance that impressed the international judges.
Labuan’s momentum continued in the Senior Team Kumite event. The formidable lineup of Martina Anne Jipaun, Hazimah Jamil, and Syarulniza Abdul Jamil fought their way to the top of the podium, securing the contingent’s second gold.
Senior athlete Syarulniza Abdul Jamil emerged as the standout performer of the tournament. In addition to her team gold medals, she displayed immense fighting spirit in the individual categories, bagging a silver in Senior Individual Kumite and a bronze in Senior Individual Kata.
The youth exponents also proved their mettle against international competitors:
- Nur Aleesya Dayana Asmadie: Secured a silver medal in the 15-Year-Old Individual Kata and a bronze in the 15-Year-Old Individual Kumite.
- Nur Ariesya Dayana Asmadie: Earned a bronze medal in the 15-Year-Old Individual Kata category.
- Mohamad Aqib Aimar Mohamad Affendi: Contributed the team’s final bronze medal with a spirited performance in the 10-Year-Old Individual Kata.
The successful expedition was led by Renshi Aswadee Taba, President of the Labuan Karate Association. Joining the delegation were En. Mohamad Affendi Abas (Team Manager) and Raini Madin (Parents’ Representative), who ensured the welfare and smooth management of the athletes throughout their stay in Japan.
