UPNVJ Public Relations – Two months of preparation and training finally paid off for Yohanes Selo Malau, a student in the International Relations program at the Veteran National Development University (UPNVJ) in Jakarta. He won a gold medal in the Rakyard Rumble x Piala Panglima TNI 2026 amateur boxing championship after defeating his opponent from the University of Indonesia (UI).
The championship was held to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Presented by Sadasport, the event provided a platform for participants to demonstrate their skills in the ring while also testing their courage, physical and mental toughness, and sportsmanship.
Behind his gold medal win, Yohanes admitted he underwent approximately two months of preparation. This training period was crucial for building his physical readiness and confidence before entering the competition arena.
"I prepared for about two months so I could be confident about taking part in the competition," said Yohanes.
In the match, Yohanes faced athletes from the University of Indonesia. Rather than dwelling too much on his opponent's strengths, he chose to focus on what he had prepared during training.
"The strategy I prepared, I only relied on prayer and proving what I had practiced," he said.
For Yohanes, the biggest challenge during the championship wasn't just physical. The pressure to perform at his best and the desire not to disappoint those closest to him became a mental test in the lead-up to the competition.
"The biggest challenge is just that I'm afraid of not being at my best and disappointing my family and friends," he said.
These concerns ultimately paid off when Yohanes emerged victorious and took home the gold medal. This achievement served as a testament to the training and sacrifices he had made.
"I feel quite proud of myself. I feel like everything I've sacrificed in training has paid off," Yohanes said.
Yohanes' success adds to the growing list of achievements of UPNVJ students in sports. This achievement also demonstrates that a busy student life is no barrier to continuing to develop potential and compete outside of academics.
According to Yohanes, success in sports doesn't come instantly. It takes courage to start, a willingness to go through the process, and consistency in training.
He also conveyed a message to other UPNVJ students who want to pursue achievements, especially in the sport of boxing.
"All victories begin with the intention and passion to try and train hard," he said.
Through this achievement, Yohanes demonstrated that the courage to try, discipline in training, and readiness to face pressure can yield impressive results. The gold medal at the Rakyard Rumble x Piala Panglima TNI 2026 is the fruit of a long process and motivation to continue developing his skills and representing UPNVJ in future competitions.