During the pandemic, while many picked up new hobbies, Penangite Lim Kai Yi turned his attention to setting Guinness World Records. Inspired by online videos of record-breaking feats, the Butterworth resident discovered that submitting records to Guinness was free, sparking his new pursuit.
Lim set his first record in 2021 for the fastest time to solve a Klotski puzzle, a challenge involving sliding wooden blocks. His attempt was captured on video and subsequently verified by Guinness, earning him his first world record certificate.
At just 20 years old, Lim has since amassed over 105 Guinness World Records, primarily in speed-solving puzzles such as Rubik’s cubes and Klotski puzzles under various conditions—including with his feet, upside down, and blindfolded. His achievements also include removing the most Jenga blocks in one minute (33 pieces), solving a Rubik’s Magic Puzzle blindfolded in 1.564 seconds, and solving a rotating puzzle tetrahedron while hula-hooping in 3.9 seconds.
A puzzle enthusiast with over eight years of experience, Lim credits his competitive spirit and self-developed techniques for his success. His interest began at a science fair featuring a Rubik’s Cube competition, where he was captivated not by prizes but by the speed-solving process.
Some records, like solving a 3×3 Rubik’s Cube in a scorpion yoga pose, posed significant risks. Lim described this attempt as perilous and expressed no desire to repeat it.
Lim’s accomplishments have enhanced his hand-eye coordination and multitasking skills, benefiting his studies in linguistics and bolstering his résumé for scholarships and internships. He aspires to surpass Ashrita Furman, the American record-holder with over 600 Guinness World Records, aiming to set 1,000 records in his lifetime. For now, he hopes to reach 120 records by the end of the year.
Lim emphasizes the importance of creativity in record-breaking and advises aspiring record setters to innovate rather than follow conventional methods. His ultimate goal is to elevate Malaysia’s presence on the global stage and demonstrate the capabilities of Malaysians through his record-breaking feats.
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