Just over the weekend, local newspaper Sinar Daily reported that China has staged a spectacular opening ceremony for the 19th Asian Games, leaving the spectators and athletes mesmerised. As China’s president officiates the ceremony, the 19th Asian games is said to be the largest Asian Games held, with over 11,831 athletes from 45 countries participating.
Sivasangari & Muhammad Shah Firdaus bears the M’sian flag at the 19th Asian Games in Hang Zhou
Paired with dazzling cultural and lighting performances, this year’s opening ceremony is definitely one to remember. The opening ceremony has also attained a new milestone where traditional fireworks were replaced with digital fireworks, by using animation and 3D tools. This milestone is also aligned with Hang Zhou’s pledge to be the first carbon-neutral Asiad, reducing carbon emission and utilising green energy.
![Sivasangari and Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom bearing the Malaysian flag during the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hang Zhou. Source: BERNAMA](https://cdn.foodie.asia/waupost/2023/09/25130011/2357770.jpg)
Source: BERNAMA
Participating for the 18th consecutive time, the Malaysian team was led by Chef-de-Mission Datuk Chong Kim Fatt, along with flag bearers Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom and S. Sivasangari. For those who are unfamiliar, both of the flag bearers have shown exceptional performance in their respective sports.
Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom is a track cyclist born in Johor and has won multiple medals, including a bronze medal during the 2022 Commonweatlh games. Sivasangari on the hand is the rising star for squash, defeating Satomi Watanabe back in 2018, making her the champion for the British junior open.
![Rising stars of Malaysia: Sivasangari and Muhammad Shah Firdaus Shahrom. Source: Varnam MY](https://cdn.foodie.asia/waupost/2023/09/25130134/383005286_737438638397836_7540266815669638048_n.jpg)
Source: Varnam MY
That being said, it’s apparent that both athletes are the emblem of determination, excellence, and sportsmanship, leaving Malaysians proud of their achievements. All the best and we’re all rooting for you!
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