Competing against the world’s best on the international stage, the name Aniq Kasdan has swiftly risen as one of Malaysia’s most promising sporting icons. At a young age, he has already made history, securing gold for Malaysia in international Weightlifting Championships and setting new records.
In this Top 10 of Malaysia feature, Aniq reflects on his journey, discipline and the drive behind his ascent as he continues to lift Malaysia’s weightlifting ambitions onto the global podium.
Balancing the demands of elite sport and academics, 24-year-old Aniq Kasdan is both a full-time national weightlifter and a Sport Management student at UiTM Shah Alam. His journey is marked by discipline, charisma and perseverance that extends beyond the competition platform. Growing up as one of seven siblings, Aniq describes a childhood shaped by modest means but rich in perspective. “We were happy, even when things were difficult,” he shares. “It taught me to stay grateful in every situation.”
When the conversation shifted to his career, Aniq points to a central early milestone: his first competition win. He recalls, “That moment actually became a major turning point and strengthened my belief in myself, realising what I’m capable of.”
Reflecting on the beginnings of his weightlifting journey, Aniq credits two key figures who set him on his path. “My journey in weightlifting began because of two important individuals: my older brother and my first coach. Along with the strong support from my family, they encouraged me to pursue weightlifting seriously.”
Every journey has its share of challenges, and for Aniq, the toughest came during the Movement Control Order (MCO). “The biggest challenge I faced was during the MCO period, when I nearly gave up due to a lack of hope in the sport,” he shares. “With God’s will, I managed to persevere, thanks to the constant encouragement and support from the people around me”—a moment he now looks back on with pride. Aniq continues by sharing his personal ways of staying inspired and motivated, “I would always remember my family as they remain my main source of strength and purpose, as well as reflecting on the long process it took to reach my current level.”
For Aniq, success isn’t measured by trophies alone. “Success is defined by setting daily personal targets and committing myself to achieving them consistently,” he shares. Looking further ahead, he adds, “and in the long run, my biggest dream is to become an Olympic gold medalist and win as many championships as possible.”
Aniq has this to say to anyone embarking on a similar path: “To those starting their journey, my advice is to work hard and never give up too early, because every effort will pay off – it is only a matter of time.”