Malaysian contingent hit the ground running at Asian Para Games

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 20, 2026

The Malaysian team has started competing at the Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, with cyclist Zuhairie Ahmad Tarmizi winning the country's first medal in the men’s C4-C5 1,000m time trial event. This early achievement sets a positive tone as Malaysia aims to secure six gold, 10 silver, and 16 bronze medals throughout the competition ending on October 24.

The Malaysian contingent has begun its campaign at the Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, with strong participation and early success. The Games, which commenced on Sunday with an opening ceremony at Mizuho Paluan Athletics Stadium, were officially inaugurated by Emperor Naruhito under the theme "Imagine One Heart."

Leading the Malaysian team of 63 athletes are chef de mission Tan Chee Keong and deputy Mohd Yazid Shoib. Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohd Taufiq Johari was also present during the parade of nations, where athletes made their entrance through a symbolic handcrafted tree installation representing unity and connection.

The opening ceremony showcased Japan’s cultural heritage while emphasizing diversity and inclusion, consistent with the spirit of para sports. The event marks the fifth edition of the Asian Para Games and is expected to feature over 3,000 athletes from 45 countries. The competition will run through October 24.

Malaysia is competing across 10 sports, including badminton, boccia, cycling, archery, shooting, athletics, powerlifting, table tennis, swimming, and wheelchair tennis. The national contingent has set a target of winning six gold, 10 silver, and 16 bronze medals during the games.

The Malaysian delegation has already captured its first medal, with cyclist Zuhairie Ahmad Tarmizi securing a podium finish in the men’s C4-C5 1,000m time trial event. This early success echoes the country’s notable performance in the previous Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou in 2023, where the Malaysian para athletes earned seven gold, 15 silver, and 17 bronze medals.

As the competition progresses, Malaysia aims to build on this momentum to meet or surpass its medal targets over the coming days.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.