KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Ju-Jitsu Federation (MJJF) has announced a record-breaking surge in participation for its 2026 National Team Trials, signalling a significant shift in the country's combat sports landscape.
Close to 70 athletes—the highest number in the federation’s history—have registered for the trials, which are set to take place on Feb 8 at Cheras Leisuremall. The event marks a critical juncture for the sport, ahead of the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which Malaysia will host.
Datuk Benjamin Ong, President of the MJJF, described the milestone as a "powerful indicator" of the sport's domestic evolution.
"This record number is more than just a statistic," Ong said.
"It is a powerful indicator of how far Ju-Jitsu has come in Malaysia — driven by passionate athletes, committed coaches, and a united community that believes in long-term athlete development."
The trials will feature a diverse cohort of competitors, including men, women, and children, all vying for a coveted spot on the national squad.
The spike in interest follows a successful 2025 campaign, where Malaysian Ju-Jitsu practitioners secured multiple podium finishes across regional competitions. They include Joelle Ai Wong (women's under-57kg) winning the silver medal in the 2025 SEA Games and Cassandra J.Poyong (women's under-57kg) picking up the bronze in the regional meet.
The federation believes the momentum is being strategically channelled toward the 2027 SEA Games. With the advantage of competing on home soil, the federation is focused on building a "medal-ready" squad.
The decision to host the trials in a public concourse at Cheras Leisuremall reflects a broader effort to increase the sport’s visibility and grassroots appeal.
The event is scheduled to begin at 10am, with the federation inviting the public to witness what they describe as the "momentum behind one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing sports."
Image: Malaysia Ju-Jitsu Federation