Azimuddin Syakir Kamaruddin is set to make his debut at the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, carrying the legacy and encouragement of his late father as he competes from September 19 to October 4. The 21-year-old Malaysian national hockey player lost his father two years ago while participating in the Nations Cup in Poland, but continues to draw strength from his father’s guidance, which remains a central source of inspiration.

Azimuddin’s father, who coached the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) hockey team and the Johor junior team, had long hoped to see his son excel at the highest level. Azimuddin made his national team debut at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup shortly before his father’s passing, fulfilling a dream they shared. “He always wanted me to be in the national team and be in the starting eleven,” Azimuddin said, reflecting on the motivation his father’s words provide amid the pressures of international competition.

Malaysia’s hockey team, known as the Speedy Tigers, faces a challenging group stage in the Asian Games, drawn in Group B alongside Pakistan, China, Oman, Uzbekistan, and Thailand. The team’s ultimate objective is to secure the gold medal, which would grant them an automatic berth to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This goal is especially significant as Malaysia has not qualified for the Olympics since the Sydney Games in 2000.

Azimuddin acknowledged the high stakes but emphasized his readiness and composure. Despite being one of the younger squad members, he embraces the responsibility of taking on the main flicking duties, a role usually held by Syed Syafiq Syed Cholan, who is sidelined due to injury. “I have to take what comes at me with courage. I know I’m young, but being around the seniors has also shown me how to be calm,” he said. He added that patience and bravery are key, particularly when facing tough moments on the pitch.

Malaysia’s opponents in Group A include strong contenders such as defending champions India, Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. The team will rely on a blend of youth and experience to navigate the competition as they pursue their Olympic qualification goal. Azimuddin's determination and the memory of his father’s encouragement appear to be pivotal elements fueling his ambition at the forthcoming Games.