The Malaysian team at the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games was buzzing with energy, and two of its brightest stars were making waves right from the beginning of the competitions.
Eighteen-year-old Cheah You Zhou and fifteen-year-old Grace Didin, both competing in the SH6 category, are stepping onto the international stage for the very first time.
For Cheah, badminton is more than a sport – it is his life. With no formal schooling, his days revolve entirely around training, and he draws inspiration from Chinese badminton superstar Lui Yi.
“Badminton is all I know, and I’ve dreamed of moments like this my entire life,” he said. “One day, I hope to represent Malaysia at the Paralympics in Los Angeles.”
Grace comes from a family steeped in para badminton history. Her father, Didin Taresoh, a former World Championships gold medalist in the SH6 category, now coaches her personally, passing on both skills and values.
“I’m not only excited, I was really nervous before coming to the UAE,” Grace shared.
“Badminton has given recognition to our family, and I feel proud to continue that legacy. We always want to serve our country and make Malaysia proud.”
Both athletes, supported by Chery International, share the same ambitious dream: competing in the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Off the court, they are eager to experience Dubai, with plans to visit iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, making their first international trip not just a competition, but a memorable adventure.
As the tournament progresses, Cheah and Grace are ready to showcase their talent, determination, and the spirit of Malaysia on an international stage — turning nerves into courage and dreams into action.
