SHAH ALAM, Sept 27 — While her peers enjoy playing netball, badminton, or video games, Aira Imani Muhammad Zulfadhli, 11, has chosen a very different path.
At the tender age of seven, the eldest of three siblings fell in love with the sport of traditional archery — a passion that has since carried her onto the world stage.
In May this year, she stunned many when she was crowned champion in the girls’ junior category at the World Traditional Archery Championship 2025 in Hungary.
Over 500 archers from 36 countries competed, but the small-framed girl with her calm expression proved that age is no barrier to courage.
“I chose this traditional sport because it is a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and not as physically demanding as other sports.
“I never expected my name to be announced as champion because the competition was so intense,” Aira told Media Selangor.
Family sacrifices
The journey to Europe was not easy, as the high costs demanded sacrifices from the entire family. They pooled their own resources before a small contribution from Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) or MBI helped ease their burdens.
Her mother Nuridah Jasnih, 36, admitted that every sen spent was worthwhile upon seeing the remarkable changes in her daughter.
Since taking up the bow, Aira Imani has become more focused in her studies, independent, and mature.
“This sport is more static, which suits Aira. Her two younger siblings are now following in her footsteps. There is nothing wrong with promoting a Sunnah sport,” she said proudly.
Although her daughter dreams of moving on to horseback archery, Nuridah and her husband have never stood in her way. Their only advice: never forget the traditional roots where it all began.
“What she has started is full of blessings. Wherever she goes, she must never lose that foundation,” she said.
Extraordinary spirit
The story of a child from Puchong triumphing in Hungary is not merely about trophies. Cold weather, unfamiliar culture, and challenging competition terrain tested her, yet Aira remained composed.
Her discipline and focus made her appear beyond her years, even though it was her first time setting foot in Europe.
“Archery makes me calmer and more strategic, just like when I study Mathematics or do drawing,” said Aira, who loves both subjects.
Behind her success stands her experienced coach Mika Irfan Nojey Aman Amalo Nojey, 27, a former world traditional archery champion. He has been training Aira at his Dayakboi Playground centre since 2022.
“Her discipline is extraordinary. Sometimes I myself learn from her,” he said.
For Mika, Aira’s victory is not simply about numbers or medals.
“She endured the cold weather, walked long distances to the competition venue, yet remained full of spirit. That is the true spirit of a champion,” he said.
Mika also explained the difference between traditional and modern archery. Modern archery relies heavily on precision and advanced equipment, while traditional archery demands instinct and sensitivity, like in horseback archery.
“Traditional archery is essentially the art of adaptation, not merely technique,” he said.
Now, Aira's passion has expanded into horseback archery, which she regards as a new challenge that keeps alive the spirit of heritage.
“Many think traditional archery is outdated, but for me it is more challenging and beautiful,” she said.
Her family remains her strongest support. The traditional attire Aira dons at every competition — sponsored by Kolej Komuniti Pasir Gudang — has become a symbol of appreciation for her cultural roots.
Criticism met with composure
Although criticised at times for pursuing a sport considered 'old-fashioned', Nuridah merely regarded such instances as a test.
“What matters is that my daughter is happy and does not neglect her studies,” she said.
To her family and coach, Aira is not just a young athlete, but a symbol of determination, discipline, and unceasing prayer.
Though small in stature, the bow in her hands now sends arrows flying across the world, bringing pride to Malaysia.
Every pull of the string tests not just the strength of her arms but also anchors her heart with confidence — that this Sunnah sport nurtures the soul and has the power to conquer the world.
