Malaysia’s Bonnie Bunyau Gustin wins para powerlifting gold at the ASEAN Para Games, celebrating a family milestone with his brother Bryan.
MALAYSIA’S para powerlifting star Bonnie Bunyau Gustin delivered a commanding performance to win gold at the ASEAN Para Games Thailand 2025.
The 26-year-old lifted 201kg in the men’s up to 80kg category, easily surpassing Thai silver medallist Marasri Thongsa’s 173kg.
The victory held extra significance as Bonnie shared the international competition stage for the first time with his elder brother, Bryan Junency Gustin.
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“I felt extremely happy today. This was my first gold medal at the APG, and to be on the same stage with my brother made it even more special,” said Bonnie.
He explained his move to the 80kg class was strategic, as his body weight was already at the upper limit of his previous 72kg category.
Bonnie described the APG as a preparatory event, building his numbers ahead of major competitions like the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.
His gold was complemented by Bryan’s silver medal in the men’s up to 88kg event.
Bryan achieved a personal best lift of 195kg, finishing behind Indonesia’s Jaya Andika Eka.
He narrowly missed a sibling double gold after his final attempt was ruled a no-lift due to a technical fault.
“It was almost there. I felt a sting on my right side during the last lift, and the form was slightly off,” Bryan said.
Despite missing gold, he described sharing the podium with his younger brother as a proud family moment. – Bernama
