Zhi Yan’s progress was halted by the Covid-19 pandemic, which delayed his SEA Games debut in Hanoi by six months.

But he ensured that the time spent waiting was put to good use with a fine performance to capture the men’s taijiquan event with 9.71 points.

It means the crown that his coach Loh Choon How won in 2019 in the Philippines remains with Malaysia.

“This is perfect, I was elated when I saw my name on top. I have been waiting for this SEA Games for two years, and I am very eager to compete again.

“I wasn’t under great pressure. I just followed my coach’s advice to give a good performance,” he said after the prize-giving ceremony at Cau Giay Gymnasium.

Zhi Yan also hopes to fare well in the taijijian event tomorrow.

Another debutant Clement Ting Su Wei was surprised to win the men’s changquan event after scoring 7.90 points.

“I didn’t target a medal, I just followed the routine step-by-step. I am very delighted with the gold,” the 24-year-old Sibu lad said.

Calvin Lee Wai Leong, another SEA Games debutant, took silver in the men’s nandao with 9.68 points.