DEAFLYMPICS 2025: 'KONNICHIWA' TOKYO, MARKING A CENTURY OF GLOBAL DEAF ATHLETES' EXCELLENCE

From Farah Najihah Zuraimi

TOKYO, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- Konnichiwa Tokyo!

Tokyo today not only raised the curtains on a sporting event, but also witnessed history as Japan hosted the Deaflympics for the first time, marking 100 years since the Games were first held for the global deaf athlete community in 1924.

A total of 3,081 athletes from 81 countries and territories filled the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium not merely to compete, but to etch their names in history and ensure the world continues to ‘hear’ their voices.

The athletes’ parade began with a touching montage, followed by each contingent marching in proudly, with the Malaysian deaf contingent appearing 47th, featuring 25 athletes who made a striking entrance in peach-coloured baju Melayu and baju kurung with blue accents highlighting the nation’s identity and grace.

Chef de Mission Mohd Yusri Abdul Ghani, Deputy Chef de Mission Jasmine Choo and flag-bearer Foo Zu Tung led the Malaysian contingent with pride.

The atmosphere grew more festive with the presence of members of the Japanese royal family witnessing the celebration and spirited display of athletes, with official speeches delivered by Japanese Federation of the Deaf president Ishibashi Daigo, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Crown Prince Akishino on behalf of the imperial household.

The most historic moment arrived when International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) president Adam Kosa officially declared the 2025 Deaflympics open, followed by the entry of the Deaflympics flag and the official anthem accompanied by sign language interpretation.

The symbolic torch was lit by former and current athletes, igniting competitive spirit, while all athletes took their oath, accompanied by the Japanese national anthem.

An artistic performance themed ‘One Day in 100 Years’ showcased Japanese culture in vibrant and creative fashion, captivating all in attendance.

This edition of the Games features more than 200 medal events across 21 sports disciplines including athletics, badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, bowling, road cycling, football, futsal, judo, karate, swimming, taekwondo, tennis and wrestling.

Malaysia is targeting three gold medals, with two expected from badminton (women’s doubles and mixed doubles) and one from tenpin bowling.

The national contingent will also compete in athletics and karate, carrying high spirits to maintain Malaysia’s strong international performances.

At the Brazil Deaflympics 2022, Malaysia secured two gold medals through women’s badminton doubles and women’s team tenpin bowling.

-- BERNAMA