Selangor's Saif Nordin chooses Taiwan as international training base ahead of SUKMA
Renowned for its international coaching, competitive training environment and affordability, Taiwan's Starry Fencing Club and SFC International Camp have become a preferred destination for fencers of every level, attracting athletes from across Asia seeking quality preparation without the high costs of traditional European training bases.
SHAH ALAM: Selangor fencer Saif Nordin is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations for the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), choosing Taiwan as his international training base as he intensifies preparations for the country's premier multi-sport event.
Speaking exclusively to Selangor Media, the Selangor athlete said he will split his training between Malaysia and Taiwan over two training stints before SUKMA, combining centralised training with the Selangor Fencing Association (SAFA) coupled with regular training at Touche Fencing Club and specialised international preparation at the SFC International Camp in Taiwan.
"I'm dividing my time between Malaysia and Taiwan as I prepare for SUKMA," said Saif. "My programme includes centralised training with SAFA as well as additional time with Coach Andrew at Touche. The SFC International Camp is a critical part of my international exposure. The school holidays have started, so I can now focus 100 per cent on fencing."
Saif believes the standard of preparation for this year's SUKMA is significantly higher than in previous editions, with many states investing in overseas training programmes. "The level of preparation is much higher than the last SUKMA, not just for the Selangor team. We can see many other states travelling overseas for training, including to Singapore, Hong Kong and Korea. I choose Taiwan because it fits both my style and we have a good relationship with Starry Club."
Source: Starry Fencing Club / News Desk Asia file photo
He also acknowledged the organisations and sponsors that have helped make his preparations possible. "I have to thank the National Sports Council Selangor (MSNS), SAFA and my sponsors who have made this possible. It's one thing to have a dream, but without the resources to support the plan, it would be very difficult."
Both SFC International Camp, taking place this month and next, forms a key part of his preparation, bringing together experienced international coaches, including coaches from Italy, alongside high-quality sparring partners from across Asia.
"The SFC International Camp is an important component of my preparation. The international coaching is excellent and the sparring is very challenging because of the quality of the fencers from around the region. The timing is also ideal because it also helps prepare me for the Senior World Championships in Hong Kong later this month."
SFC International Camp Director Coach Johnson Tse-Yuan Chen said the programme has become an increasingly popular destination for regional athletes seeking international exposure.
"Last year we held the camp in Malaysia, while this year we are back in Taiwan. We are pleased to welcome several Malaysian fencers to every camp."
Coach Johnson who is also Starry Fencing Club Founder continued "Saif is no stranger to our club, having trained with us several times before. We are delighted he has included both our summer camps as part of his preparation for the Malaysia Games."
Johnson said Taiwan has developed into one of Asia's most active fencing destinations, attracting athletes looking to elevate their performance. "Taiwan has a vibrant domestic fencing scene, with athletes competing regularly at both national and international levels across all three weapons. The ease of travel together with affordable accommodation and food has made our camps increasingly popular with athletes from around the region who want to take the next step in their fencing journey."
Following the training camp, Saif will return to Taiwan to represent Malaysia at the Asia Cadet Cup, competing in the individual event as part of the Malaysian Fencing Federation (MFF) squad before returning for a second training block ahead of SUKMA.
The international training programme comes on the back of excellent domestic form, with Saif recently winning three gold medals at the NS Matrix Fencing Festival in Seremban, including the prestigious Open title after defeating Singapore SEA Games representative Julian Soh 15–6 in the final.
With 12 gold medals up for grabs, the fencing competition is taking place from 19–23 August at the UiTM Shah Alam Sports Centre, Selangor will be hoping its overseas preparations translate into success on home soil.
For more information about attending the next SFC International Training Camp visit their Instagram page. The camp will have a selection of Foil, Epee and Sabre coaches and fencers from around the world in attendence.
