National boxer Muhammad Abdul Qaiyum strengthens mental preparation for his third SEA Games, aiming to improve on his 2023 bronze medal performance
KUALA LUMPUR: National boxer Muhammad Abdul Qaiyum Ariffin is prioritising mental fortitude ahead of his third SEA Games appearance in Thailand next month.
The 21-year-old from Ipoh believes enhanced psychological preparation will help him maintain composure under pressure at the biennial event.
“I usually perform well during sparring with effective attacks and defence, but competition day performance can differ,” he said.
He overcomes this challenge by visualising the competition environment during training sessions.
The 2023 SEA Games bronze medallist in the men’s 51kg category aims to surpass his previous achievement in Thailand.
Muhammad Abdul Qaiyum anticipates strong challenges from host nation Thailand and the Philippines.
The 2025 SEA Games will be held from December 9 to 20 across Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla. – Bernama