LAKKI MARWAT: International judo player from Lakki Marwart Maliaka Noor has brought pride to her district and the country by securing significant victories at both national and international levels.
Despite limited resources and the social constraints of a conservative environment, she continues to establish herself as a rising force in Pakistan’s sporting landscape.
In an interview, Ms. Noor credited her mother, a sports teacher, for introducing her to the Japanese martial art. She began her journey by traveling with her mother’s judo teams from Lakki Marwat to Peshawar for competitions, experiences that eventually shaped her professional career.
To date, she has represented Pakistan in several international forums, winning two medals. Her most recent achievement includes a silver medal at the National Games, which she describes as a turning point. “My performance in 2021 gave me the confidence to commit to this sport professionally,” she told local reporters.
Defying Social Barriers
The path for a female athlete in a traditional society is rarely smooth. Ms. Noor noted that while entering a physically demanding sport like judo was difficult, she overcame these obstacles through rigorous training and unwavering family support.
Addressing the physical nature of the sport, she emphasized the importance of scientific training methods. These techniques allow her to maintain peak fitness and reduce the risk of injury during high-stakes competitions.
Demand for Infrastructure
Despite her personal success, Ms. Noor highlighted the lack of facilities for aspiring female athletes in remote districts. She urged the provincial government to establish judo academies at the district level to nurture local talent.
“The government must provide better facilities and create inclusive opportunities for women,” she stated. According to her, such initiatives would enable young girls to showcase their abilities and bring further international honors to Pakistan.
