SINGAPORE - A 40-20 defeat at the hands of Malaysia on Saturday (May 14) ended Singapore's stint in Division 1 the Asia Rugby Championship.

The loss meant world No. 59 Singapore finished bottom in the four-team group and were relegated to Division 2.

The Republic were supposed to be playing in Division 2, but had been pushed up a tier after Kazakhstan's late withdrawal last month.

An upset 28-24 win over the higher-ranked Philippines (49th) on Thursday gave them a chance of staying in the division. They had opened their campaign with a 17-33 loss to world No. 37 Sri Lanka last Sunday (May 8).

But the hosts, ranked 60th in the world, proved too hot to handle. Malaysia top the group and earn a shot at being promoted to the Tri-Nations division which boasts top Asian teams Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea. They will play against the bottom of the three teams for a spot in the top-tier.