Khoo competed in a Wushu competition in Zhejiang University. Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
Khoo Yong Jie(second from left) was praised by world champion Ma Lan. Photo Ding Xiaoyu
Story
By Jin Yingying
On July 7, over 20 Gen-Z Int'l Youth Newscasters of Hangzhou Asian Games from Zhejiang University had a unique opportunity to take a Wushu class under the guidance of the world champion Ma Lan. Among them, Khoo Yong Jie from Malaysia earned praises from Ma for his impressive skills.
"With the reputation as a world champion and an abundance of experience, Ma Lan became a source of my inspiration," said Khoo after the opening class.
It turns out that Khoo began practicing Wushu at the age of eight. His initial fascination with Wushu stemmed from his admiration for the iconic Kung Fu stars like Jet Li, Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Donnie Yen, and Sammo Hung. In his elementary school, there were extracurricular Wushu classes, marking the start of his fateful Wushu journey.
Being robust but remarkably coordinative, he caught Ma's attention. The class prompted his interests in learning about the international Wushu competitions.
As his practice years accumulated and diverse genres and weaponry tried, Khoo's understanding on Wushu underwent a gradual transformation.
"I firmly believe that comprehending the essence of each martial art they practice would facilitate the mastery of any routine. I never consider myself an expert at any specific routine, as my interpretations and insights continually evolve with time and experience," Khoo explained.
During Khoo's 9th and 10th years of training in Malaysia, he found himself encounter a plateau and was kept from further improvement. Even the subsequent opportunity to be trained with the Zhejiang University Wushu Team after his arrival in China hardly yield any desired results. Hence, He tried resorting to solitary practice in the training room.
Throughout his 15-year Wushu odyssey, Khoo has suffered various injuries, including fractures, back strains, and shoulder dislocaction, as well as a failure in the arena occurred in his senior high school year that cost his team the title of a national championship.
Upon graduation from high school, Khoo briefly distanced himself from Wushu. Although his life without the demanding training regimen provided him a relief, he "keenly felt a void every day". After being engaged in a profound introspection, he finally rediscovered his unwavering passion for the sport.
"I have no regrets about the decisions I made in my 15-year Wushu journey. I am grateful for everything I experienced during this time, even the opportunity to join the state team in Malaysia. My family prioritized my education, causing me to miss out on this precious opportunity," Said Khoo, "these are things that have made me who I am today. Wushu has sharpened my soul and shaped my body, supporting my indomitable and persistent spirit." Khoo added.
Last month, Khoo played in a Wushu competition held for students in Zhejiang University and won the first prize.
Ma's flawless performance of the cudgel art left an indelible mark on Khoo. Overjoyed by her commendation that day, he cherished the hope of engaging in future exchanges and interactions.
Khoo also said that through this encounter with the world champion, he gained a deeper understanding of Wushu, especially after experiencing the profound meaning of the bowing ceremony. "Wushu conveys the spirit of perseverance and courage, as well as etiquette and humility among practitioners. This is right in line with the spirit of the Asian Games."