Sukma XXI: Sarawak’s mixed doubles squash pair edge out Melaka for gold

KUCHING (Aug 19): Sarawak won its first 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma XXI) gold medal for squash today through Natalie Shu Eng Sim and Harith Danial Jefri in the mixed doubles category.

Natalie and Harith beat Melaka’s Andrik Lim Kai Shan and Thanusaa Uthrian 11-9, 8-11, 11-9 in a thrilling encounter played at the Sarawak Squash Centre.

Met after the match, Nathalie and Harith expressed their delight in defending the gold they won in the previous Sukma two years ago.

“This victory means a lot to both of us since it is our second gold medal in this category.

“We started the match well and managed to finish it well,” said Harith, who also thanked the spectators who provided them with support throughout the match.

Nathalie said the win was extra special as this will be her last time competing in Sukma.

“I will return to the United States after this to continue my studies. We will see later where the next direction for me is in the sport of squash,” she said.

Nathalie and Harith will also participate in the men’s and women’s doubles categories.

Separately, Sarawak also won bronze in the same category through the pair of Altamis Aqhar Sallam A Sufian and Eugenia David.

In a tough match against Sabah’s Tristan Andreas Muyou Angkaus and Doyce Lee Ye San, Altamis and Eugenia prevailed to win 11-6, 10-11, 11-6.