Malaysian 100m National Record Holder Zaidatul Husniah Binti Zulkifli is not relying on raw power alone for her SEA Games Gold quest. She revealed a specific, technical focus on mastering the crucial middle phase of the race, believing this control, coupled with ‘perfect basics’ in the 4x100m relay, is the key to finally defeating regional rivals.

Zaidatul, who holds the 100m National Record of 11.49 seconds, explained that her achievement proves she is still capable of climbing higher. While she has secured multiple SEA Games silver and bronze medals, her target remains clear: “As long as one Gold medal is brought back for Malaysia, that is meaningful enough.”

The Technical Focus: Finding Rhythm Through Relaxation
To ensure she crosses the finish line first in the individual 100m, Zaidatul has implemented a specific strategic change to counter past defeats in the final metres.

“Lately, I have been training heavily to ‘stay relaxed’ between the 60 to 80 meter marks,” she revealed. “Mentally, I have planted just one idea: ‘finish the race, don’t chase the race.’ It is about me staying calm and trusting my own rhythm to ensure I maintain pace through the finish.”

 

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Relay Victory Through Perfect Basics
This philosophy of disciplined simplicity extends directly to the 4x100m relay, where the team aims for a new National Record (currently 44.58s) and Gold against strong contenders like Thailand and Vietnam. Zaidatul emphasizes that fundamental execution, not complicated tricks, will be their edge.

“For the 4x100m relay, we are focusing on the basics only, for example, ensuring the baton handover runs smoothly,” Zaidatul explained. “We are not chasing complicated techniques; we just want every exchange to be neater and more consistent. In a tight race, the difference is sometimes just hundredths of a second. So, we must ensure every exchange is executed perfectly.”

Commitment Over Conjecture
Regarding persistent rumours about the end of her illustrious career, Zaidatul is determined not to allow external noise to derail her focus in Bangkok.

“I actually refuse to confirm or announce whether this is my final appearance. I will announce it later at the SEA Games,” she stated. “The feeling of pressure is there, but at the same time, it makes me more focused. Right now, I just want to run with a calm heart and give my best for Malaysia.”

As a leader, her non-technical advice to the younger sprinters before they take the track is focused on this foundation: “I would advise them to trust themselves and their teammates. Focus on teamwork, and we will achieve success together.”