An archer placing her shot at a turkey across a pond.
Three-dimensional target archery is making waves in Malaysia, transforming rapidly from a niche hobby into a recognised sport.
Its surge in popularity has caught the attention of international archery equipment manufacturers, who now actively support tournaments held across the country.
Hosting a 3D archery tournament, however, is no small feat.
Two archers from Singapore placing their shot at the club event.
At the heart of the sport are foam animal targets, and assembling a comprehensive collection poses both logistical and financial challenges for clubs, businesses and individual enthusiasts.
Most targets are imported from Europe or the United States, with renowned brands like Reinhart and Delta-McKenzie dominating the market.
These targets fall into three main categories: predators, prey and fun.
Predator targets feature animals like bears, mountain lions, wolves and jackals, while prey targets include rabbits, deer, mountain goats, turkeys, wild pigs and even smaller creatures like prairie dogs and weasels.
Judges inspecting archers during a score-taking session.
The costs can be prohibitive.
A single small foam target can cost anywhere between RM300 and RM900, while larger, more intricate models command even steeper prices.
Avid archers often invest thousands of ringgit building private collections that showcase everything from deer to birds of prey.
Local archery clubs have stepped up to support the sport’s growing community.
Some clubs have invested in herds of 3D targets, enabling members to train for competitions.
A senior archer taking his shot at an animal blind during a club event.
At least three businesses in Peninsular Malaysia now boast collections of over 30 targets, which they use for tournaments that attract both novice and seasoned archers.
To meet the demands of these events, organisers typically design a 24-checkpoint course, with each checkpoint featuring one or more 3D targets.
At a recent competition in Negeri Sembilan, a standout feature was a lucky draw prize: a large foam bison target valued at RM7,700.
Donated by Italian manufacturer SRT-Target, which is known for its self-healing foam designs, the prize captured the imagination of participants and spectators alike.
SRT-Target’s products, praised for their durability, have become a sought-after choice for serious archers.
Club members posing with their 3D foam animal targets.
In Malaysia, the Subang Jaya Archery Club leads the way, boasting a full collection of SRT-Target’s 3D animals.
With over 40 targets, the club has hosted numerous competitions, attracting participants from the Petaling district and beyond.
Another major player in the scene is the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Archery Club, renowned for its talented barebow archers.
A club member setting up a target at a club shoot.
The club has amassed numerous local tournament victories, but its training sessions, held at a private range in Bandar Sri Permaisuri, are open exclusively to members.
Despite the sport’s growing appeal, Malaysia lacks public 3D archery courses. The high costs of setting up and maintaining a complete range have hindered efforts to create accessible facilities.
Most foam targets are sourced from pro shops in the Klang Valley, leaving many enthusiasts reliant on clubs or private collections for practice.
Part of the club’s collection of 3D foam animals.
Still, competitions in states such as Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan and Terengganu provide opportunities for archers to hone their skills and enjoy the sport.
The rise of 3D target archery reflects a growing appreciation for outdoor activities that combine skill, precision and a spirit of adventure.
While challenges – ranging from the high costs of equipment to limited public access – remain, the dedication of local clubs and enthusiasts is propelling the sport forward.
With every competition and training session, Malaysian archers are not just hitting targets, but they are building a vibrant and thriving community for the future of archery.
Ready, aim, fire!
