JOHOR BARU: He arrived in the Philippines expecting to judge the world’s best massage therapists but left as one of its champions.
Malaysia Therapist Team adviser Dr Hadafi Fitri Mohd Latip led a triumphant Malaysian showing at the Philippines International Massage Championship last month, where he and two fellow therapists outperformed competitors from about 15 countries to bring home top honours.
What made the victory even more dramatic was that Hadafi Fitri had never planned to compete.
“It was a complete surprise to suddenly end up competing and winning the top prize,” he said.
“I was originally invited as a judge. But before the finals, we were unexpectedly asked to take part because there was a special competition category for judges.
“Fortunately, I had packed a spare outfit that I usually wear for performances. Since I have years of experience performing in international massage competitions, I was able to quickly visualise a routine and perform spontaneously.
“That made standing on the podium with the Malaysian flag even sweeter,” he said.
The 42-year-old clinched first place in the jury category with a massage performance infused with cultural elements.
His teammates also delivered standout performances.
Lim Sim Zher captured the prestigious M1 Grand Prix gold medal, considered the championship’s highest honour, while Faten Syahira M. Hanafi won silver in the Eastern-style massage category and bronze in facial massage.
“During the championship, Lim incorporated a Chinese fan into her routine, which earned points for uniqueness under the judging criteria,” said Hadafi Fitri, who is also director of the Sports Innovation and Technology Centre at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
He said the team’s success at the championship proved Malaysian therapists can compete on the international stage despite being entirely self-funded.
While Thailand remains one of Asia’s strongest competitors, he said Malaysian therapists are increasingly gaining recognition for their multicultural identity.
“We incorporate these elements into our performances through traditional attire, movements and even local herbs used in massage oils,” he said.
Hadafi Fitri said the team currently has about 100 members, most of whom are experienced therapists, spa owners and wellness centre operators.
“We hope to formally register the team and secure sponsorship support from government agencies such as the Youth and Sports Ministry,” he said.
Hadafi Fitri added that the World Massage Federation’s recent proposal to include massage as an Olympic sport could open exciting new opportunities for Malaysia.
“We play an important role in recovery, injury prevention and enhancing elite athletes’ performance,” he said.
