KUALA LUMPUR – What started as a simple dream without guaranteed funding has evolved into an exciting new chapter for gymnastics in Malaysia.
The first Piala Puteri Classic, initiated and led by former national gymnast Sarina Sundara Rajah, took the spotlight this year – not just as a competition, but as a movement aimed at empowering young female athletes.
Speaking to Scoop, Sarina referred to the initiative as a “leap of faith,” motivated by purpose, conviction, and the belief in the transformative power of sports, particularly for girls at the grassroots level.
“We began with a vision – without confirmed funding, but with a strong belief in the purpose of this platform,” she said.
“What we lacked in resources, we compensated for with passion, determination, and the steadfast support of the SRGC community.”
The event, held last weekend exclusively for gymnasts from the Sarina Rhythmic Gymnastics Club (SRGC), was intentionally kept small. This allowed the organisers to focus on enhancing the experience and establishing a solid foundation for future events.
A notable aspect of the event was the Puteri Pavilion – a serene space where each gymnast chose a personal word of affirmation that represented her journey, identity, and values.
These affirmations were displayed alongside each gymnast’s portrait, reinforcing the event’s central message: that true strength starts with self-belief and inner grace.
Another significant addition was the Puteri Awards, which aimed to recognise character, spirit, and values rather than just technical skill.
“These awards reflect our ongoing commitment to Safe Sport principles,” Sarina explained.
“They honour not only what our gymnasts achieve but also who they are becoming – and that embodies the spirit of Piala Puteri.”
Despite the event’s successful launch, Sarina acknowledged that the path to its realisation was challenging. From handling logistics and scoring systems to the emotional responsibility of supporting young athletes, every step required careful attention.
“Without financial support, the journey served as a powerful reminder that meaningful change often starts not with certainty, but with courage,” she noted.
“There were moments of doubt, trial and error, and long nights – but our strong conviction and the unwavering support of our community kept us going.”
Sarina said that she was involved in every aspect of the event – from its visual identity and programme structure to its thematic messaging – ensuring that every detail aligned with the overarching theme: Grace Meets Tradition.
Looking ahead, Sarina shared plans to open the competition to clubs across Malaysia, with aspirations of eventually including participants from the wider Southeast Asian region.
“We’re excited to welcome local clubs for the next edition and, eventually, regional participants,” she said when contacted.
“Our vision is to create an inclusive, empowering platform that celebrates both athletic performance and personal growth.”
However, Sarina was open about the need for more support from key stakeholders in the future.
“The inaugural edition relied almost entirely on internal resources and community goodwill,” she added.
“But to sustain and grow, we need government bodies, corporate sponsors, and the broader gymnastics community to collaborate.”
Piala Puteri is also expanding its role beyond just competition. The 2023 launch featured a Master Class led by Olympic and world champion Tamara Yerofeeva, as well as Power Talk sessions with respected figures like Niloy Banerjee, the UNDP Resident Representative for Malaysia.
“Athlete development must be holistic – addressing physical performance, emotional well-being, and leadership,” Sarina said.
“We’re committed to creating a supportive environment where girls can thrive – in sports and in life.”
Sarina added that this event is a personal mission to give back to the sport that shaped her.
“Piala Puteri is my way of contributing to the sport that has given me so much,” she said.
“It’s about creating the kind of platform I would have valued as a young athlete.”
When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, Sarina envisioned something that goes beyond medals and podiums.
“I want future generations of gymnasts to look back at Piala Puteri as a place where they felt seen, supported, and celebrated – not just for their achievements, but for who they were becoming.
“If it inspires even one girl to stand taller, speak more confidently, or dream bigger, that would be a legacy worth leaving,” Sarina said. – June 26, 2025