Mandarin-speaking Keevan out to make name in karate and studies

PETALING JAYA: Karate exponent K. Keevan Raj (pic) is a man of many talents.

Keevan can speak Mandarin fluently, has a diploma in business and is also showing promise in karate.

The 22-year-old from Penang was named Best of the Best Male athlete at the Milo International Open Karate Championships after winning gold in the Under-75 kumite category at Stadium Titiwangsa on Sunday.

One of Keevan’s secrets to success is a good relationship with Penang state coach Nicole Lee, whom he communicates with in Mandarin.

“I’ve been speaking Mandarin for almost all my life because my parents sent me to a Chinese kindergarten when I was three. I also went to a Chinese primary school,” said Keevan.

“My ability to speak the language helps me communicate well with my coach. I have been training under her for the past three to four years.”

Under Nicole, Keevan also showed his potential when he won bronze in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) last year.

Next, the youngster, who has been practising karate since he was five, is hoping to get selected in the national team.

“My grandfather and parents encouraged me to take up the sport and sent me for karate classes since I was five,” said Keevan.

“I have never missed any training session in the Penang state team since I was 13.

“My next goal is definitely to get into the national team. I also want to keep going, keep training and win every competition.”

Keevan has also been working hard to juggle his studies and karate.

He is next looking forward to continuing his degree after completing his diploma in business.

“I will be doing my degree soon. I have applied for a few courses and I’m waiting to be accepted,” said Keevan.

“It’s difficult to balance both my studies and karate but I just want to do it. I will find new ways to manage both.

“If I have classes in the morning, I will adjust my training schedule accordingly. Usually, my training is at night, so it does not clash with my classes.”

With Keevan’s determination, expect him to make the national team sooner than expected.