Perak weightlifter breaks national record to win gold

BETONG: Perak won the gold medal in the 45kg senior women’s category when its athlete broke the national record by lifting a total of 144kg.

Qistina Qharisya Suffia Mohd Muzani has her eyes on the gold in this year’s Malaysia Games (SUKMA) to give back to her parents, coaches and state.

Weightlifting women’s 45kg category gold medalist and new national record holder Qistina Qharisya Suffia Mohd Muzani of Perak bites her gold medal. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

“I have been wanting to win gold for Perak because I want to give back to my parents and those who have supported me over the years,” she said in an interview at Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Ningkan Kalong Sports Hall today (Aug 19).

The previous national record was set in SUKMA 2022 by Nurul Afiqah Zamzuri of Terengganu who lifted a total weight of 136kg.

Sabah’s Irene Jane Henry took home the silver medal, lifting a total of 137kg, while Katierina Bojing of Sarawak claimed the bronze medal, lifting a total of 108kg.

Katierina dedicated the bronze medal to her mother, who has supported her in the sport. She said she is aiming for gold in the next SUKMA in 2026.

“I’m very grateful to my parents, coaches, and also my friends for their support. So I am very happy that I got a medal today.

“My mother has been my biggest supporter in this journey, and this medal is for her.

“However, I will come back stronger and go for the gold in the next SUKMA championship,” she said.

Katierina gives her all out efforts for bronze medal. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni