Kuala Lumpur: On February 23, the international multisport tournament “Games of the Future 2024” in Innopolis featured the Cybathletics competition, where the Malaysian national team took 8th place and won a prize pool of $3 000.
Cybathletics is a discipline where cybathletes showcase their skills in everyday tasks using assistive technologies and means of rehabilitation. Among participants there were national teams of Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, India, South Africa, and Nigeria.
Each team consisted of 4 cybathletes:
- ARM pilot with a forearm prosthesis;
- LEG pilot with a thigh prosthesis;
- WHEEL pilot driving an electric wheelchair;
- NEURO pilot maneuvering an electric wheelchair using a neuroheadset.
The competition had two stages: group and playoffs.
In both stages teams had to complete six tasks using innovative assistive devices. The tasks included overcoming slopes, stairs, boxes, doors, crossings, ramps, and activating light signals through the captain’s neuroheadset. After the group finals, four teams advanced to the playoffs, following the Olympic system
The qualifying round took place on February 22, while the main battle occurred the next day as cyberathletes vied for a prize fund of $100,000.
All teams were fitted with electric-wheelchairs and neuro headsets supplied by Russian companies: Caterwil and Neuroplay, alongside adaptive coats provided by Ortomoda.
| Place | Country | Name | Prize $ |
| 1 | Russia | Russian Cyborgs | 35 000 |
| 2 | Saudi Arabia | Falcon verts | 20 000 |
| 3 | Egypt | Pharaohs | 14 000 |
| 4 | Vietnam | Buffaloes | 9 000 |
| 5 | Iran | Unity | 6 000 |
| 6 | Indonesia | Tanah Air | 5 000 |
| 7 | Nigeria | JONAPWDIANS | 4 000 |
| 8 | Malaysia | Malayan Warrior | 3 000 |
| 9 | South Africa | Iqhudeо | 2 000 |
| 10 | India | BHARAT | 1 500 |
Prizes were given based on the final ranking of the teams. The semifinals saw teams from Russia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Vietnam compete with each other.
“The Cybathletics competition represents a remarkable fusion of technology and athleticism, demonstrating the potential for human-machine collaboration. These projects not only push the limits of innovation, but also foster inclusion by providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to excel in sports. I am inspired by the initiative and its positive impact, and look forward to contributing in the future.” — Dr. Nadia Mohd Mustafah, Associate Professor, Rehabilitation Physician & Pain Specialist of Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.
“Establishing an International Cybathletics League is poised to support athletes and coaches in exchanging experiences, studying cutting-edge training methodologies and exercise techniques, strengthen sports connections between countries, raise the level of competition, and consequently enhance motivation for training. Participation in global competitions will help in promoting Cybathletics as a distinctive sport on the world stage, drawing in new enthusiasts and participants. Those interested in teaming up with us are invited to get in touch, as we are eager to forge new collaborations and teams.” — Andrey Davidiuk, board chairman of Cybathletics.
Sports Desk, Malay News.
