What makes this record even more inspiring is that the idea came from Vasanth himself. The second-year student wanted to stand out from other karate practitioners and test his own limits by incorporating an unusual challenge. It took him an entire year of rigorous practice to adapt to the specially crafted nailed shoes before he could successfully perform the demanding Kata routine.
His father, K. Vasantha, 41, who works as a school van driver, shared that his only son has always been full of energy and determination. “My son started learning karate at the age of three. Over the years, he has competed and won in several local and international children’s karate tournaments,” he said proudly.
This isn’t Vasanth’s first record-breaking moment. In July, he secured a spot in the Yoga Asia World Record 2025 for the longest one-leg standing in the children’s category. Currently holding a blue belt, he is already preparing to master five additional Kata movements as he works toward earning his black belt.
Vasanth has also made waves beyond record books. Last year, he won the Karate Kata championship at an international sports tournament in Kuala Lumpur and received the Best Non-Sports Sports Achievement Award 2024 from the state government. Despite being a single father, Vasantha has instilled in his son strong values of independence, discipline, and resilience. “Karate is not just a sport; it’s a form of self-defense. My son faced bullying in the past, and learning martial arts gave him the strength and confidence to stand up for himself,” he shared.
For young Vasanth, this achievement is just the beginning. “I am proud to have made it into the Malaysia Book of Records. One day, I hope to represent Malaysia as a national athlete and bring pride to my family and country,” he said with quiet determination.
According to MBR official Siti Hajar Johor, who presented the certificate of recognition, this is the first record of its kind in Malaysia. “We received the application two months ago and conducted a detailed evaluation before granting the recognition. His creativity and courage to attempt something new make him a true inspiration to the younger generation,” she said.
At just eight years old, he has shown that extraordinary achievements begin with the courage to do something different and to never give up.
Source / Image Credit : Bernama & Awani