By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Young tennis talent Yuna Koh from Kota Kinabalu has brought pride to Malaysia after helping the national team clinch the championship title at the ITF South East Asia 12 and Under Team Competition, held from 4–8 May 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Representing Malaysia, Yuna and her teammates delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament, defeating Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and finally Indonesia in the championship match to secure the crown.
Yuna, 12 years old began playing tennis at the age of eight, training at the Likas Tennis Stadium in Kota Kinabalu. Since then, she has consistently excelled in local tournaments in Sabah and national junior competitions before progressing to the international stage as part of Malaysia’s team.
The Sabah Tennis Association (STA) proudly congratulates Sabahan junior player Yuna Koh on her outstanding achievement at the ITF U12 South East Asia Team Competition 2026. Representing Malaysia for the second time, Yuna played a pivotal role in securing the nation’s No. 1 position.
STA president Dr Terrence Soong extended his heartiest congratulations, noting that Yuna remains under close observation as she continues to refine her skills and playing style. He expressed his hopes that Yuna will one day represent Sabah at Sukma, reaffirming STA’s commitment to nurturing young talents and supporting their pursuit of excellence on both the national and international stage.
Yuna’s journey is a proof to years of dedication, resilience, and discipline. From her very first steps onto the courts at Likas Tennis Complex, she has grown into a promising athlete.
STA extends heartfelt appreciation to her parents and her coaching team, past and present, whose guidance and belief have been instrumental in her development.
Dr Soong also emphasized the urgent need for greater support from the Sabah Sports Council and the Sabah Ministry of Youth and Sports. He highlighted priorities such as refurbishing the dilapidated tennis courts at Likas Sports Complex this year and building new courts in emerging districts like Kota Belud, Kuala Penyu, and Semporna. These initiatives, he stressed, are vital to discovering new talents and expanding the reach of tennis across Sabah.
Her latest triumph at the South East Asia competition marks another major milestone in her promising tennis journey. Following this victory, Yuna will once again represent Malaysia at the ITF Asia Final U12 Tournament, scheduled to take place in Singapore in September 2026.
Yuna, 12 years old began playing tennis at the age of eight, training at the Likas Tennis Stadium in Kota Kinabalu.
