By THO XIN YI
Photos by TK. Lim


All set: YAM students demonstrating some basic techniques of Aikido.


THERE were lots of yelping and throwing going on at the official opening of Yoshinkan Aikido Malaysia’s (YAM) Tiara dojo (training centre) in Subang Jaya recently.

The guests looked on with curiosity and admiration as the instructors and students of YAM tackled and countered the attackers effortlessly.


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The demonstration of the basic techniques of Aikido such as Ikkajo, Nikajo, Sankajo, Shiho Nage and Sokumen Irimi showed that Aikido helps the students to live a disciplined life free from fear.

The third dojo of YAM will have Loke Yin Hoei as head and resident instructor. The other two dojos are in Cheras and Petaling Jaya.

The 21-year-old started learning Aikido at 15 under the personal instruction of her father, YAM chief instructor Sonny Loke. She has been teaching Aikido for the past three years.

“My vision for Tiara Dojo is to be the centre for spreading the art of Aikido among the youths of Subang Jaya and Shah Alam, and especially ladies and children,” said Loke.


Skillful beauty: Kung throwing a man off on the tatami.


“Aikido is a martial art that emphasises on collaboration and conciliation rather than confrontation. I strongly believe Aikido can promote harmony and discipline in our multicultural community,” she said.

State Tourism, Consumer Affairs and Environment Committee chairman Elizabeth Wong, who officiated at the event, applauded YAM for its initiative and commitment to the health, wealth and well-being of fellow citizens by championing the Aikido spirit of harmony and discipline.

“It is a fact that health promotes wealth. As we endeavour to realise Vision 2020, it is also clear that at present, the citizens of our city are facing threats to their personal safety and well-being, creating anxiety which distracts us from progress,” she said.

The other guests of honour included Miss Malaysia 2005 runner-up, Chermaine Poo, and Miss Malaysia Tourism Queen 2008, Kung Hai Yuan.

The latter also demonstrated some Aikido moves on how to stop harassment from strangers. The demonstration was followed by a public self defence workshop open to public of all ages.

Classes for adults and children are conducted daily. There are also Japan-certified instructor course, private lessons and corporate classes.

Tiara Dojo is located at No 3, Jalan Tiara 3, Tiara Square, Taman Perindustrian UEP, 47600 Subang Jaya, Selangor.

For details, call Chantana at 012-201 6690 or Hoei at 012-321 8618.

~The Star