While the Winter Games are in full swing in Italy, Malaysia’s sole representative, alpine skier Aruwin Salehhuddin, is finalizing her preparations in Milano Cortina. The 21-year-old is set to make history this weekend as the first Malaysian woman to compete in two Winter Olympic Games. Her first event, the Women’s Giant Slalom, is scheduled for February 15, which also coincides with her 22nd birthday.

Aruwin has been training intensely in Europe to improve upon her 38th-place finish from Beijing 2022. As the lone flag bearer for the Malaysian contingent, she carries the hopes of the nation on the slopes. Following the Giant Slalom, she is also slated to compete in the Slalom event on February 18. Her presence at the Games marks Malaysia’s third consecutive appearance at the Winter Olympics since their debut in 2018.