Chess is a game of skill and strategy, often associated with mental acuity and problem-solving. Chess tournaments, both online and offline, are held worldwide, and the game is a recognized sport with international organizations governing its rules and competitions. Just recently, a 14-year-old Malaysian with autism has made headlines for her exceptional skills in chess.
M’sian dad encourages daughter with autism to try out chess
According to local newspaper Sinar Harian, during the Covid-19 pandemic 3 years ago, Malaysians were forced to stay at home to help curb the spread. Seeing that they would have to stay home, Mohd Afif, a father to 5 children then encouraged his kids to try out new hobbies, including chess. To his surprise, one of his daughters, Ainul Mardhiah showed exceptional skills when playing chess.
“We realised that she was able to pick up the game rather quickly. My wife and I then decided to hire a chess teacher to help fine tune her skills”, she said.
Source: Sinar Harian
With the help of their chess teacher, Mohd Afif and his wife, Nor Idah Wagimin started enrolling their children into chess competitions online. Through chess tournaments at the Johor School Sports Council (MSSJ) and the Malaysian School Sports Council (MSSM), Ainul was able to soar to the top, being crowned as the new women champions in 2023.
Ranked 24th when attending chess tournament in Italy
Following her victory, Ainul was given the chance to represent Malaysia, participating in the chess tournament in Italy. While she had to face opponents who are older and more experienced, Ainul managed to remain calm and performed well. Asking about their day-to-day lives, Mohd Afif shared that after school, Ainul would come home and practice playing chess for 3 hours a day.
Source: Malaysian Chess Federation
Acknowledging her achievements, Mohd Afif hopes that through local and international tournaments, Ainul is able to have a chance to represent Malaysia and participate in the 45th World Chess Olympiad’ in Hungary next September.
Keep up the good work, Ainul, we hope you excel and succeed in all your future tournaments! What do you think of this? Let us know.
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