Singapore is asking Malaysia for help in their quest for a Southeast Asian (SEA) Games diving gold.
Former Malaysian diving champion Wendy Ng has been appointed as Singapore Aquatics’ new national talent development coach for diving.
The 31-year-old, a seven-time SEA Games gold medalist with three Olympic appearances, assumed the role in January, replacing China’s Xiao Xia.
Ng’s primary focus will be building a robust talent pipeline and elevating Singaporean divers to a higher competitive level.
While Singapore has earned numerous silvers and bronzes at the SEA Games, gold medals have remained out of reach—a challenge Ng believes is surmountable.
“To achieve this, Singapore needs more international exposure. Competing against top divers regularly will help athletes adapt to higher levels of competition,” Ng told The Straits Times.
“Success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years of consistent development with a structured long-term programme, a strong support system, and athlete commitment.”
Reflecting on Malaysia’s dominance in regional diving, amassing 44 SEA Games gold medals since 2013, Ng attributed much of the success to her home country’s established diving culture.
“Malaysia has a strong diving culture with years of structured programmes, experienced coaches, and a well-developed talent identification and development system.”
“The depth of talent also plays a big role, as a larger pool of divers creates healthy competition and drives progress,” she said.
PHOTO: THE STAR