11/05/2025

ON SUNDAY MAY 11, 2025 theSunday Special VII

W ELCOME to Malaysia, where self-defence is becoming more than just a skill – it’s a move ment. The emergence of female-only martial arts gyms, particularly SheFights, has put a spotlight on the grow ing interest among women to take their VDIHW\ DQG ¿WQHVV LQWR WKHLU RZQ KDQGV Founded by the passionate Faeznur Farok, SheFights is more than just a gym – it’s a sisterhood dedicated to empowering women through the art of combat. A personal journey sparking a movement Faeznur’s journey into the world of martial arts began with a passion that soon trans formed into a lifeline. Her experience in martial arts grew alongside her personal struggles, notably during a challenging divorce. “Training became my anchor,” she re ÀHFWV H[SODLQLQJ KRZ PDUWLDO DUWV KHOSHG KHU UHEXLOG KHU FRQ¿GHQFH DQG VHQVH RI purpose. “That experience reinforced my belief in the power of martial arts, not just as a sport, but as a tool for healing and empowerment”. It was during this process that she no ticed a critical gap. Women all around the country were eager to train but often felt intimidated in male-dominated spaces. Recognising this need, Faeznur launched SheFights as a haven where women could WUDLQ FRQ¿GHQWO\ IUHH IURP MXGJPHQW What commenced as small self-defence workshops rapidly scaled into a full ÀHGJHG J\P FDWHULQJ VSHFL¿FDOO\ WR WKH unique needs of women. “I wanted to create a space where women could train FRQ¿GHQWO\ IHHO VDIH DQG EXLOG VWUHQJWK together,” she shares, emphasising the essence of community at SheFights. Breaking barriers: The need for a female-only gym The decision to establish a female-only gym arose from the collective experiences of many women. Faeznur noted that sev eral women hesitated to join mixed-gender gyms due to past negative experiences or simply a desire for an environment that fa cilitated their personal growth. SheFights addresses these issues head-on, creating a comfortable and supportive space where women can focus solely on their training. “Many women are looking for a space where they can train without feeling self conscious,” Faeznur states, pointing out how the community at SheFights actively encourages personal development. The gym’s environment fosters openness, allowing members to ask questions and push their limits without feeling pressured to prove themselves. Empowerment through training: More than just a workout Self-defence plays a crucial role in address ing broader societal issues concerning harassment and violence against women. Faeznur believes that self-defence is about DZDUHQHVV DQG FRQ¿GHQFH DV PXFK DV LW LV about physical capability. “When women feel equipped to handle themselves, they’re less likely to be tar geted,” she explains. By instilling knowledge and empower ing them with practical skills, SheFights promotes a preventive approach to per sonal safety.

Training women to ï—šÈ ‚vƒ§ stronger

T DNLQJ WKH ¿UVW VWHS For many women, the thought of stepping into a martial arts gym can be daunting. “ -XVW VWDUW

BY ASHRAF WAHAB

“ :KHQ D ZRPDQ OHDUQV WR ¿JKW EDFN VKH FDUULHV KHUVHOI GL̆ HUHQWO\ 6KH¶V PRUH assertive and self-assured.” This newfound confidence radiates into all facets of life, enhancing women’s interactions in both personal and professional realms. SheFights offers a diverse range of martial arts disciplines tailored to address specific needs. From Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which teaches smaller individuals how to control larger opponents, to the FRQ¿GHQFH LQ VWULNLQJ R̆ HUHG through boxing and Muay Thai, members are empow ered to defend themselves ef fectively. The emphasis on real-life self-defence scenarios is particularly crucial, equipping women with skills that extend far beyond the gym. A supportive sisterhood Beyond physical training, SheFights cultivates a sense of community that sets it apart. “It’s a sisterhood,” Faeznur describes, noting the camaraderie among members who share in each other’s struggles and successes. Many women arrive at the gym feeling vulnerable, having faced harassment or assault. As they train and build relationships, they regain control RYHU WKHLU ERGLHV DQG FRQ¿GHQFH LQ WKHLU capabilities. Success stories from the SheFights community illustrate this transformative process. Women who once felt fearful or uncertain have emerged empowered, capable of navigating the world with a renewed sense of safety and assurance. This supportive network is what Faeznur considers the most rewarding aspect of her work, a place where women not only grow stronger physically but also emotionally and socially. Facing challenges head-on While SheFights is thriving today, Faeznur faced scepticism when establishing the gym. Some questioned the necessity of a female-focused training space, doubting whether it could succeed in a landscape dominated by mixed-gender gyms. Yet, the growing community and positive responses have validated her vision. “The response from our community has been incredible and that speaks for LWVHOI ´ VKH Ḋ UPV Running a gym also entails convention al business challenges, such as funding and logistics, but Faeznur’s unwavering passion has motivated her to overcome these obstacles. Her dedication to provid ing a safe space for women has driven her to achieve meaningful growth for her project.

I wanted to create a space where women could train confidently, feel safe and build strength together.”

Faeznur, founder of SheFights

Self-defence plays a crucial role in addressing broader societal issues concerning harassment and violence against women.