Once considered a niche sport, powerlifting in Malaysia has steadily grown into a thriving community driven by strength, discipline and self-improvement. Across the country, more Malaysians are embracing the sport not only as a form of fitness, but as a platform for personal empowerment and competitive achievement.
In recent years, female participation in powerlifting has seen a remarkable rise, with more women stepping confidently into gyms and competitions alike.
Challenging outdated stereotypes surrounding strength and femininity, these athletes are reshaping perceptions while inspiring a new generation to pursue strength on their own terms. From first-time lifters to national-level competitors, Malaysian women in powerlifting continue to prove that strength comes in many forms — both physical and mental.
Among them is Atika Sikun, a 34-year-old business development manager for SBD Malaysia, executive committee member of the Asian Powerlifting Federation (APF), the only female Malaysian member of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and a mental health ambassador.
A Force In Powerlifting
Speaking to Hype Malaysia, Atika shared how her personal experiences ultimately guided her towards powerlifting — a sport that would go on to shape both her career and identity.
Hype Malaysia: What got you into powerlifting?
Atika: The reason why I started powerlifting is because I wanted to lift heavier than my ex. I was seeing this guy in 2021, that was during the peak Covid-19 time. We were seeing each other for a few months. He was doing weightlifting and you know, I was really into the relationship but then it turns out, I was just a rebound.
So, out of spite, I was like, you know what, maybe I’ll do something similar to him. And maybe, in a few years time, I’d be like “So, how much do you bench? Your bodyweight? I bench two times my bodyweight. I bench three times my bodyweight. So, you lose!”
That was the initial idea. So, what happened was, after that, I needed to distract myself from the break up. It was really heavy on me and I was like, you know what, maybe I should start looking for a strength-based gym.
So, at that time, it was peak Covid-19 time right, so only certain gyms were open. And you know, you had to wear masks and there were many restrictions. But, I was determined. Because I really wanted to get back at this guy.
I found my first powerlifting gym with my former coach, and then after about a month or two, I was like, wait a second, this is doing more for me than the idea of being petty towards my ex. I actually saw changes in myself, my physique. Like, I felt lighter, I felt stronger.
So, I told myself, you know what, maybe I could actually do this, take it more seriously, like in competing and all of that.
Fun fact: Atika Sikun can now lift five times her bodyweight.
Hype Malaysia: As a female powerlifter in Malaysia, what challenges have you faced especially considering it’s still often perceived as male-dominated?
Atika: I wouldn’t say it’s male-dominated, I would say that it’s a niche sport especially in Malaysia. However, it is growing, based on an increase in competitions that’s been held since MCO.
There are more ladies now, which is great, thanks to the involvement of YB Hannah Yeoh and also some private entities that have helped to elevate the powerlifting in Malaysia.
But, yes, there are definitely challenges. I would say there are three things that are still a challenge. One is the space we are allowed to take up in the gym, especially when you go to normal commercial gyms.
So, what happens is that, because I’m small, right? So, I’ll go to the rack, and (people) won’t actually see me as an equal. Whenever I say like, “Hey, may I know how many sets or reps you have left?“, I have honestly encountered a few times where they’ll dismiss me, probably thinking that I’m lifting light but I’m not. And it turns out, I’m lifting heavier than them. And then they’ll start to talk to me nicely.
Secondly, a challenge, which is personally for me because of my physique, is the loading plate. So, you’ve heard of passenger princess, right? I really wish that there is also a movement of gym princess. Like, I really wish that there was someone to help (with loading the plates).
And thirdly, it’s the lack of female coaches or coaches that actually understand how female physiology works. Let’s say for us girls, we have periods, we get bloated. So, quite a number of coaches don’t really see that or understand that yet. And the availability of coaches, as well.
Fun fact: Atika mentioned her physique, she is 148cm and 57kgs!
Hype Malaysia: Powerlifting doesn’t just challenge you physically, but also mentally, right? How has the sport shaped your confidence and mindset outside of the gym?
Atika: I love this! As a powerlifter, you have to understand one thing: powerlifting is BORING.
You do the same thing, same reps, same repetition, different weights, obviously. On the mental aspect, you have to be okay doing the same thing over and over again until you get better at it.
A lot of people quit powerlifting because you don’t see (the results) immediately. Strength itself builds up over time, which also builds mental resilience. When injuries happen, when life happens, us powerlifters, we call that externals. Whatever that happens outside of training, that’s external.
Another thing people often forget is that us powerlifters, we’re also human. We always hear people saying, “Oh, I need motivation to go to the gym.”. For powerlifting, you can’t do that. I don’t have motivation to go to the gym, but you know what keeps me going? It’s the discipline.
This similar mindset can then be applied when you go to work. Okay, ugh, I don’t want to go to work today, I feel so lazy. But, that discipline, it’s motivation.
That’s what powerlifting has done for me, it’s basically that mental resilience, which also applies to being an adult. Like, you can only cry for 5 minutes before you have to, like, boss up.
Hype Malaysia: Considering more Malaysian women are taking an interest in strength-based sports, what advice would you give to those who may feel intimidated about starting their powerlifting journey?
Atika Sikun: My advice, especially for Malaysian women, if you want to start on a strength-based sport, get a coach. Not because they have backgrounds (in the sport) but for strength training, I truly believe a proper programme will help you get better at it.
Also, have a goal. I have a friend who train those from the elderly community. She’s based in Kajang, her name is Aina Sakinah. Basically, Aina trains women above the age of 50, to start strength training. And then, because of strength training, most of her clients are managing their health complications better, with lower blood pressure, better mobility.
There’s also a higher level of awareness now, when it comes to strength training. Everything is readily available online, but having a coach and having a goal is the first two things you need to do if you want to start a strength-based programme.
So, if you need help, let me know. I can provide suggestions. Because, there are more and more certified female coaches when it comes to strength training. I have a friends who are national champions, national athletes for powerlifting and they also have certification for prenatal training.
For women, strength training is scientifically proven to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. So, when you do strength training, your knees will actually get stronger. And if you’re pregnant, when you do a lot of movement and strength training, it also helps the birth process. This is also scientifically proven.
So, there are a lot of advantages for women to do strength training.
Time to get STRONG
Whether you’re looking to build strength, boost confidence, or simply challenge yourself in a new way, powerlifting offers more than just physical benefits.
Stepping outside your comfort zone and trying something new can be incredibly rewarding, opening doors to personal growth, resilience, and a supportive community. As Atika’s journey shows, sometimes the strongest transformations begin with a single decision to give something unfamiliar a chance.
Do stay tuned to Hype Malaysia for more updates!
