Quitting job to pursue martial arts: A tough yet meaningful call for Edilah

Sabah’s ONE Warrior Series representative Edilah Johany faced that dilemma slightly over a year ago.

Edilah, who held a job at one of Malaysia’s leading telecommunications providers, found it a struggle to balance a full-time career with martial arts and her family.

Eventually, the 26-year-old made a big decision that altered the course of her life.

“I had a job for a couple of years, but I quit my job last year to become a full-time martial artist,” the Conservation Biology graduate shared.

“The working schedule underwent a slight change, and it was not compatible with my training routine anymore.

“I had to decide whether to choose between what I love the most or a job which gives me a good and stable salary. I chose the first because martial arts has given me a new meaning in life.”

It took her some time to come to a conclusion, but her coach and boyfriend, Hisyam Samsudin – a ONE Championship bantamweight mixed martial artist – offered her a role to train and help at his new gym Ewako MMA.

Chasing her dream didn’t quite go as she envisioned, but Edilah is certain a road with struggles will end in success.

“I always tell myself that this is just the beginning, and there are a lot of successes and rewards that will eventually come after the hard work. I always tell myself that I’m better than I was yesterday, and that nothing is impossible,” she explained.

“Besides, when I see online stories about how people leave their jobs to choose to chase their passion at such a young age, it really inspires me. One tip I would share with anyone is to always meditate, pray to God, and ask for His blessings and guidance.”

With her focus solely on martial arts now, the atomweight is confident she’ll power through the next phase of her life.