SportExcel chairman Tunku Imran Ja’afar highlighted the significance of this tie-up, underscoring the critical developmental stage that Saif, like many young athletes face.

“Saif is at a pivotal moment in his sporting journey. At 14, crucial decisions about his future are on the horizon.

“High-performing athletes are not made overnight; in many cases, it takes a decade or more to cultivate the discipline and skill needed to excel,” he said in a statement.

Established in 1991, SportExcel has been a driving force in Malaysian sports development, playing a vital role in supporting young athletes through financial backing and structured programmes.

Saif expressed excitement at joining SportsExcel and said he is honoured and determined to follow in the footsteps of many accomplished athletes who have risen through the ranks with the foundation’s backing.

Saif, who has represented Malaysia and Selangor in numerous international tournaments, currently trains at Touche Fencing Club in Petaling Jaya under the tutelage of head coach Andrew Mok, an accredited coach under the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and is mentored by former national fencer Mok Chek Wlong.