Emotional Nur Eilisha dedicates diving gold medal to late grandmother

KUCHING (Aug 19): Sarawak’s women’s platform synchronised diving gold medallist Nur Eilisha Rania Muhammad Abrar Raj has dedicated her win to her late grandmother.

Nur Eilisha, who partnered with Nurul Farisya Alia Affendi for the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma XXI) win at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre here today, shared that the gold medal was bittersweet as she reflected on the loss of her beloved grandmother earlier this year.

“My grandmother was my pillar of strength throughout my life, especially in my journey as an athlete,” she said as she fought back tears.

“When I was competing at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar, I received the news of her passing. It left me with a deep sense of emptiness, but her memory continues to inspire me. I’m incredibly grateful for the support from my parents, my coaches, and the blessings she has given me, which have driven me to this point.”

Nurul Farisya was also filled with gratitude for their win.

“I want to thank my coaches and family for their belief in me,” she said.

“Their support has been invaluable, and I’m so happy we could achieve this together.”

Both divers have pledged to remain focused on their upcoming events this week.

Nur Eilisha will be competing in the women’s platform individual, 3m springboard individual, and women’s 3m springboard synchronised events.

Nurul Farisya will also participate in the women’s platform individual and mixed platform synchronised events.

The duo collected an impressive 262.08 points, securing the gold medal with a significant lead.

The silver medal went to Perak’s team of Cecelia Olivia Christopher Lioneil and Siti Nurul Jannah, who scored 197.10 points.

The bronze was claimed by Terengganu’s Ilyssa Ixora and Uzlifatil Jannah, who finished with 189.75 points.

Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam presented the prizes.