Former national coach Holloway Cheah has described his daughter Esther Cheah’s retirement as the conclusion of a defining era for Malaysian bowling, saying she achieved virtually everything possible at the highest level.
Holloway, a former national bowler, said Esther’s decision to step away marks nearly two decades of representing Malaysia on the world stage, consistently delivering outstanding performances.
“She has served the country for about 20 years and won almost every major title, from the SEA Games to the Asian Games and the World Championships,” he said.
Esther made history at 19 by becoming the first Malaysian to win an individual world title at the 2005 World Championships in Aalborg, Denmark. She went on to claim two more world titles in team events in 2007 and 2017, in addition to three Asian Bowling Championships gold medals, two Asian Games golds, and eight SEA Games golds.
Holloway, who coached Esther during parts of her career, emphasized that her achievements came from her discipline and professionalism, and that she was never given special treatment despite being his daughter.
“When we are on the team, it’s coach and player. I treated her the same as any other player, even stricter,” he said.
Her medal record underscores her impact, with victories at nearly every major regional and world competition available. The only notable absence was the Olympic Games, where bowling is not contested.
“Unfortunately, bowling is not in the Olympics. If it were, I believe she could have won an Olympic gold,” Holloway said. “There’s nothing left for her to win. She has done her duty.”
He also highlighted Esther’s influence on younger players, saying her career set a benchmark for commitment and professionalism.
“She has done a good job and set a good example for the younger generation, inspiring them to aim higher and take the sport seriously,” he said.
Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) secretary-general Maradona Chok echoed those sentiments, praising Esther not only for her medals but for her dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship.
“Her greatest contribution lies in her unwavering dedication, fierce discipline, and exemplary sportsmanship,” Maradona said.
He added that Esther’s achievements helped elevate the profile of bowling in Malaysia, particularly as the country’s first individual world champion.
“She has been more than a champion. She has been a true role model who inspired a generation to pick up a bowling ball and dream big,” Maradona said.
As Malaysian bowling looks to the future, both Holloway and Maradona agree that Esther Cheah’s career will serve as a lasting reference point for excellence and professionalism.
