SPM candidate Dhuha relieved but stern test still awaits

KUALA LUMPUR: Long-distance swimmer Mohd Dhuha Zulfikry can finally breathe easy after the authorities gave the green light for athletes to sit for their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations immediately after the Thailand SEA Games in December.

The SEA Games from Dec 9–20, overlaps with the SPM from Nov 20–Dec 23.

A total of 18 athletes are in the unusual position of having to juggle both national duty and exams.

However, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has assured that these athletes need not worry, as the Education Ministry will allow them to sit for their papers at the National Sports Complex in Bukit Jalil upon returning from the Games.

For Dhuha – the only SPM candidate in the SEA Games-bound swimming squad — the announcement came as a huge relief after weeks of trying to balance his studies and training.

“Relieved with YB Hannah’s announcement but of course the challenge is still there,” said Dhuha.

“My last exam paper after the SEA Games is Add Maths, so it’s still going to be quite challenging.

“Altogether, I’m sitting for nine subjects including Computer Science, Chemistry and Physics.

“For now, my full focus is on preparations for the SEA Games.

“Personally, my goal is to bring home at least one medal – it doesn’t matter what colour.

Dhuha will be focusing on two individual events at the SEA Games - 400m freestyle and 1500m freestyle.

“I feel like I’ve the best chance to get on the podium in the 1500m freestyle as it’s my pet event.

“My personal best (15:40.22s) is inside the third placing time from the Cambodia edition (15:40.49s), so there is a realistic chance,” added Dhuha, who splashed to six gold medals at the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak last year.