Despite earning medals in Senior categories at just 18 years old, Kiriethar Ponnaiah does not see his achievements as a measure of success. For the first-year Diploma in Computer Science student at the Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, each competition is another step in learning, rebuilding, and improving as both an athlete and a student.
At just 18 years old, Kiriethar Ponnaiah is distinguishing himself as both a dedicated student and an accomplished athlete in Karate.
At the 5th Selangor Open Karate Championship in August 2025, he won a gold medal in the Under-21 Male Individual (-84kg) category and earned a silver medal in the Senior Male Individual (-84kg) category in his first attempt competing at the higher level. In October 2025, he continued this momentum by securing another silver medal in the Senior (-84kg) Individual Kumite category at the 3rd Hoshi Ryu Open Championship.
These achievements carry added significance because they mark his return to competition after stepping back to prioritise personal commitments and prepare for his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
“These achievements are not just medals to me, they are proof that I can return, rebuild, and perform even better than before,” he shared.
Reflecting on the challenge of managing both responsibilities, he added, “It wasn’t easy to catch up, but staying consistent in both academics and training reminded me that I’m capable of rising to any challenge.”
Even with strong results in Senior categories, he views them as milestones rather than endpoints.
“I wouldn’t call it success yet, because I’m still growing,” he said. “What helped me most was being willing to compete in a tougher category, learn fast from my opponents, and maintaining a steady routine. These experiences showed me what I can do, and what I still need to improve in my technique and strategy.”
Balancing intensive training with academic expectations has taught him structure, discipline, and composure. Tournament seasons often align with exam preparation and major assignments, pushing him to manage his time carefully.
Kiriethar (right) in action. As a student-athlete, he manages his routine with precision, balancing academic and training commitments.
As a student-athlete, he relies on steady habits to stay on track.
“It consistently comes down to discipline,” he explained. “Being a student-athlete means performing well in both areas. I need to stay organised, physically ready, and mentally steady.”
INTI International University’s support has played a meaningful role in his development. Through the INTI Sports Scholarship (full scholarship) for his Diploma in Computer Science, along with flexible working hours that help manage expenses, he has been able to pursue both academics and karate with confidence.
“INTI has supported me in so many meaningful ways,” he said. “The scholarship keeps me motivated to maintain my standards. I also received flexible working hours that help cover my expenses without disrupting my study or training schedule.”
Beyond competition, he values the opportunity to contribute to the campus community by establishing and leading the INTI Phoenix Karate Club. The club provides him with a consistent training environment and gives him space to develop leadership and teamwork skills alongside his athletic progress.
When advising young athletes, he keeps his message grounded in the same principles that guide him.
“Age is just a number. Compete with yourself every day and always strive to improve. Put in the effort now so your future becomes more comfortable. Stay disciplined, trust your process, and never let self-doubt stop you.”
Kiriethar Ponnaiah (centre) on the podium at the 5th Selangor Open Karate Championship 2025.
Through his humility, steady discipline, and commitment to continuous growth, Kiriethar reflects the kind of student who builds his success through consistency rather than recognition. Each improvement, routine, and challenge strengthens his development in both academics and karate.