LAST week (June 14^th and 15th), I spent the weekend watching Round 3 of the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix held at LYL International Karting Circuit, Bandar Sg Long, Kajang. The race was poised to be a pivotal moment in the championship. This relatively new circuit, located within the Monkeys Canopy Resort grounds, was the only new addition to the championship’s 2025 calendar, promising an unknown challenge for even the most seasoned riders. It 18 corners were known to be incredibly technical, demanding not just raw speed but also pinpoint precision, immense physical endurance and a strong mental game.The race agenda began on Friday (June 13^th) and the air on the day was thick with anticipation as teams arrived. Mechanics swarmed around their machines, making final adjustments, while riders walked the track to study every apex, every braking point. Shahrol Syazras Shahrol Yuzy of HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING, a rider known for his analytical approach, had meticulously studied the circuit’s layout and he even trying his hand at karting there to gain a feel for its unique character, despite missing the initial test ride due to technical issues. He knew that adaptability would be the key, with limited time in free practice before qualifying.

On Saturday (June 14^th), dawned with a clear sky and it was a perfect condition for racing. The free practice sessions were a blur on revving engines and screeching tires as riders pushed their limits, trying to find the fastest lines. The technical nature of the LYL Circuit meant that managing tire wear was a critical concern, adding another layer of strategy to the mix. As qualifying began, the intensity ratcheted up. Riders like Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin (PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR) in CP150 and Md Irfan Haykhal Amidi (HONDA KC RACING) in CP125, who had shown strong form in previous rounds, quickly established themselves as contenders.Sunday, (June 15th) was race day. Half of the grandstands were filled-up by team supporters, buzzing with excitement. The atmosphere was electric, a symphony of anticipation and the raw power of the cub prix machines. The Wira KBS race kicked off the main events, a demonstration of raw talent from the young future stars. The battle was tight with several lead changes, showcasing the grit and determination of these aspiring champions. The 7-lap race saw PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA–31 RACING rider, Farres Putra Md Fadhil (pix) won the race recording a time of 12’25.887s followed by second place, Md Akif Abdullah (ZYNERGYS HONDA KC RACING TEAM) who clocked 12’26.348s. Third was Md Akid Md Shah Khearul Nisiam (YAMAHA ESTREMO 27 RACING) with a time of 12’26.724s.

Then came the CP125 category final. From the drop of the flag, it was a high-octane spectacle. Riders fight for position into the tight first corner, a cacophony of engines and tire squeals. The 18 corners tested every rider’s nerve. There were spectacular saves and a few heartbreaking tumbles, but the marshals were quick to react ensuring safety. The lead group was a tight pack, swapping positions relentlessly. In the final laps, a masterful display of cornering speed and late braking allowed a rider to pull a decisive gap, crossing the finish line to a thunderous ovation. It was Md Idlan Haqimi Raduan of ZYNERGYS HONDA KC RACING TEAM stole the limelight as he crossed the finishing line of the 8-lap race with a fastest time of 14’44.063s. Md Adib Arsyad Md Hisam of PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR with a time of 14’44.507s came in second while Md Khairi Asyraf Mahmood (JETRON YAMAHA YY PANG RACING TEAM) finished the race in third with 14’45.029s.

The victory is very important for Idlan as he has been waiting for it for a long time. “It’s not just about today, but about all the efforts and challenges that I and the team have gone through. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the team that never stops working hard to get the best setup for my bike.”

The hot sunny day at LYL Circuit was concluded the final battle for CP150 category. Its the most powerful machines on the circuit, ridden by the championship’s elite riders. The LYL circuit, with its challenging sequence of turns, separated the contenders from the rest. Tactics came into play, with riders looking for slipstreams on the short straights and trying to outmaneuver each other in the technical sections.

The race was a chess match at blinding speeds. A few riders emerged from the pack, locked in a wheel-to-wheel duel that lasted for several exhilarating laps. The crowd was on its feet, sensing a classic finish. In a breathtaking final corner maneuver, one rider found an inch of space, lunged forward and snatched victory by the smallest of margins, igniting celebratory cheers from their pit crew and the ecstatic fans. It was Ahmad Afif Amran of PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA-CKJ RACING which saw his last minute effort gave him the podium finish of the 11-lap race clocking a time of 18’48.052s. HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING rider, Azroy Hakeem Anuar came in second with a time of 18’46.117s while third was Ahmad Darwisy Ahmad Sahi of HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING (18’54.932s).

Overall, the Round 3 race at the LYL International Karting Circuit lived up to its promise. It was a true test of skill, endurance and strategy on a challenging new track. The champions celebrated their hard-fought victories, while others learned valuable lessons and vowed to return stronger. As the sun set on the Monkeys Canopy, the echoes of screaming engines and roaring crowds lingered, a testament to the thrilling spectacle that is the Malaysian Cub Prix. The championship battle was far from over and with the LYL circuit now etched into their memories, riders were already looking ahead to the next round fueled by the passion and the relentless pursuit of victory.

Outside the circuit, there were also promotional booths from the championship sponsors such as PETRONAS, Honda, Yamaha, Maxxis, Perkeso, energy drink Red Bull and Ranger, Cardinals, RCB, RKM and Samurai. They provides various side activities for visitors who came to watch the race.

There were also coloring contest for school children which was held on Saturday at the main stage. Cub Prix merchandise sales were among the attractions, especially the Happy Bag sales which offered attractive prizes through a lucky draw. The Happy Bag (available at every Cub Prix round), sold at RM65 offered a motorcycle as the grand prize.

Next, will be Round 4 to be held at Stadium Mini Teluk Intan, Perak from July 19-20.

KUALA LUMPUR, 20 Jun – Bagi generasi baharu, mereka tidak gemar membincangkan mengenai masa lalu, namun bagi generasi yang sudah melangkah ke era warga emas, pencapaian masa lalu tetap penting bagi mengukur sejauh mana kemajuan yang telah dicapai.

Lebih kurang begitulah pengertian saya tentang perbezaan pendapat dalam kalangan peminat bola sepak tempatan yang kebelakangan ini sering mengutarakan pendirian masing-masing menerusi pelbagai saluran media sosial.

Generasi baharu hanya mahu melihat kemenangan dengan apa cara sekali pun manakala generasi lama pula memiliki pandangan tersendiri.

Tiada salahnya sama ada seseorang pemain itu berstatus warisan atau naturalisasi beraksi untuk skuad bola sepak kebangsaan tetapi tetap ada kebaikan dan keburukannya.Perdebatan mengenai penggunaan pemain warisan dan naturalisasi dalam skuad bola sepak Malaysia sering dibincangkan oleh peminat dan pakar tempatan ketika ini, namun kedua-dua kategori pemain ini membawa potensi kebaikan dan keburukan yang perlu dinilai secara menyeluruh demi kemajuan bola sepak negara.

Kehadiran pemain warisan dan naturalisasi, terutamanya mereka yang beraksi di liga-liga yang lebih kompetitif di luar negara, mungkin membawa bersama mereka tahap kemahiran, pengalaman dan pemahaman taktikal yang lebih tinggi.

Kehadiran mereka secara langsung mungkin boleh membantu meningkatkan kualiti keseluruhan skuad, membolehkan Malaysia bersaing lebih baik di peringkat antarabangsa. Sebagai contoh, kehadiran pemain seperti Brendan Gan dan Matthew Davies suatu ketika dahulu telah terbukti berupaya membantu meningkatkan prestasi pasukan walaupun tidak seratus peratus sempurna.

Ramai pemain warisan dan naturalisasi ini telah mendapat pendedahan dengan corak latihan dan persekitaran permainan kompetitif di negara-negara yang mempunyai pembangunan bola sepak yang lebih maju.

Ini mungkin memberikan mereka perspektif berharga dan etika kerja yang profesional, yang boleh dicontohi oleh pemain tempatan. Pengalaman ini penting untuk membantu pemain tempatan memahami standard yang diperlukan untuk bersaing di peringkat tertinggi.

Selain itu, kemunculan pemain warisan dan naturalisasi yang berkualiti secara semula jadi akan meningkatkan persaingan buat pemain-pemain tempatan untuk mendapatkan tempat dalam skuad kebangsaan. Persaingan yang sihat ini pastinya akan mendorong pemain tempatan untuk bekerja lebih keras, meningkatkan prestasi mereka dan sentiasa berusaha untuk menjadi lebih baik. Semangat seperti ini yang harus ada dalam diri semua pemain tempatan.Apabila skuad kebangsaan mencapai keputusan yang lebih baik dalam kejohanan serantau dan antarabangsa, imej dan reputasi bola sepak Malaysia pastinya akan meningkat. Ini mungkin boleh membantu menarik lebih banyak pelaburan, penajaan dan minat daripada para peminat, seterusnya merancakkan pembangunan bola sepak di semua peringkat.

Pemain dari latar belakang bola sepak yang berbeza pula mungkin membawa gaya permainan dan pemahaman taktikal yang unik. Kepelbagaian ini boleh memberikan jurulatih lebih banyak pilihan dan fleksibiliti dalam merancang strategi permainan sekali gus menjadikan skuad lebih sukar dijangka oleh pihak lawan.

Apa pula keburukannya? Salah satu sudah pastinya ia akan menyekat pembangunan pemain tempatan.

Ini adalah kebimbangan utama apabila terlalu banyak tempat dalam skuad diisi oleh pemain warisan atau naturalisasi, maka peluang untuk pemain tempatan yang berpotensi mungkin terhad. Jika pembangunan bakat tempatan terjejas, ia boleh memberi kesan negatif jangka panjang terhadap bola sepak negara.

Walaupun pemain warisan dan naturalisasi ini membawa bakat individu, cabaran mungkin timbul dalam membina keserasian dalam pasukan. Perbezaan bahasa, budaya dan gaya hidup boleh menjejaskan komunikasi dan persefahaman di atas padang terutamanya pada peringkat awal.

Terlalu kebergantungan dengan pemain warisan dan naturalisasi untuk mencapai keputusan juga bakal menimbulkan masalah apabila pemain-pemain ini nanti tidak lagi dapat beraksi atau memilih untuk tidak mewakili Malaysia. Ini boleh menyebabkan pasukan kehilangan kestabilan dan menghadapi kesukaran untuk mencari pengganti yang setanding.

Sesetengah pihak mungkin melihat penggunaan pemain naturalisasi sebagai ‘jalan pintas’ untuk mencapai kejayaan segera tanpa melabur secukupnya dalam pembangunan akar umbi dan sistem bola sepak tempatan. Persepsi ini boleh menjejaskan motivasi dan semangat pemain tempatan serta kredibiliti program pembangunan bola sepak negara.

Selain itu, terdapat kebimbangan mengenai integriti proses naturalisasi dan sejauh mana pemain naturalisasi benar-benar mempunyai semangat nasionalisme untuk mewakili Malaysia. Ini boleh menimbulkan perdebatan dalam kalangan peminat dan komuniti bola sepak mengenai identiti pasukan kebangsaan.

Kesimpulannya, penggunaan pemain warisan dan naturalisasi saya anggap sebagai pedang bermata dua. Walaupun mereka menawarkan potensi untuk meningkatkan kualiti skuad dan prestasi di peringkat antarabangsa, ia perlu diuruskan dengan berhati-hati bagi memastikan ia tidak menjejaskan pembangunan pemain tempatan dan integriti bola sepak Malaysia.

Pendekatan yang seimbang diperlukan, yang mana pemain warisan dan naturalisasi digunakan sebagai pelengkap untuk memperkukuh pasukan, bukan sebagai pengganti kepada usaha pembangunan bakat tempatan yang berterusan. Fokus utama harus sentiasa kekal pada pembangunan sistem bola sepak yang mampan dari peringkat akar umbi untuk menjamin masa depan cerah bola sepak Malaysia.

Jika tidak (walaupun enggan ketinggalan dengan trend), suatu hari nanti ia ibarat ‘kemunculan perkhidmatan Grab yang telah melenyapkan perkhidmatan ‘teksi berwarna merah putih’ yang menjadi pilihan utama masyarakat tempatan suatu ketika dulu.

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 Jun – SMK Bukit Nenas (Sekolah Sukan Negeri (SSN) Terengganu) bangkit daripada ketinggalan diawal permainan sebelum melakar kemenangan 2-1 ke atas SMK Seri Titiwangsa (SSN Kuala Lumpur) dalam saingan Liga Piala Remaja KPM-FAM Bawah 17 Tahun 2025.

Perlawanan yang berlangsung pada Sabtu di Stadium Bolasepak Kuala Lumpur, Cheras menyaksikan penguasaan awal SMK Seri Titiwangsa apabila membuka tirai gol seawal minit kedua perlawanan hasil tandukan Muhd. Hafiz Hashim.

Pasukan pelawat yang dikendalikan jurulatih, Asman Ismail tidak merasakan tekanan sebaliknya mengatur gerakan untuk terus mengasak kubu lawan.

Kesabaran mereka telah membuahkan hasil apabila dua gol dicetak dalam tempoh lima minit.

Ahmad Baihaki Mohd. Adri bijak menghidu peluang untuk menanduk masuk gol penyamaan pada minit ke-35 apabila lorongan rakan sepasukan dikawal dengan kemas sebelum melepaskan rembatan untuk menewaskan penjaga gol tuan rumah, Daiyan Akif Dazain buat kali kedua pada minit ke-40.

Deretan peluang dan usaha dilakukan SMK Seri Titiwangsa untuk sekurang-kurangnya menyamakan kedudukan tidak berhasil sekali gus menyaksikan kedudukan 2-1 kekal memihak kepada SMK Bukit Nenas kekal hingga tamat perlawanan.

“Para pemain pasukan saya majoritinya berusia 16 tahun,hanya dua orang sahaja berusia 17 tahun tetapi mereka dapat mempamerkan permainan mengikut apa yang telah di rancang ketika latihan.

“Saya telah memberi tahu kepada pemain, untuk mendapatkan rentak diawal permainan mungkin sukar dan kelebihan milik pasukan tuan rumah. Kesilapan pertahanan menghukum kami tetapi mereka kembali menyusun permainan dan berjaya menghasilkan dua gol,” jelas Asman.

Ini merupakan perlawanan pertama SMK Bukit Nenas dalam saingan Liga Piala Remaja KPM-FAM Bawah 17 Tahun 2025 sekali gus meletakkan mereka di tangga ketiga Kumpulan B manakala SMK Seri Titiwangsa menghuni tangga kelima dengan tiga mata selepas mengharungi dua perlawanan.

Terdahulu, sebelum sepak mula, berlangsung Majlis Sepak Mula kejohanan tersebut yang antara lainnya turut memeterai perjanjian yang telah terjalin sejak 2008 di antara Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia (KPM) dan pengeluar minuman isotonic No.1 negara 100PLUS selaku penaja utama.

Menerusi perjanjian tersebut, 100PLUS terus komited untuk menjadi penaja bagi Liga Sukan KPM, yang mana ia bukan sahaja menumpukan saingan Liga Bolasepak KPM B14 dan B17 tetapi juga Liga Bola jaring, Liga Olahraga dan Liga sepak takraw.

Majlis dihadiri Pengarah Penglibatan Kerajaan & Industri Fraser & Neave (F&N) Holding Berhad, Norazrin Norsyam Yee, Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia, Datuk TS Dr Aminuddin Hassim dan Ahli Jawatan Kuasa Eksekutif (EXCO) Persatuan Bolasepak Malaysia (FAM), Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan.

KUALA LUMPUR, May 29th – ASICS is proud to introduce the launch of the GEL-KAYANO 32 shoe, the latest evolution in its flagship stability running shoe series.

Designed to elevate comfort and support, this new model features refined midsole design and an updated upper to provide an even smoother and more adaptive running experience.　

The GEL-KAYANO 32 shoe continues to build on the legacy of adaptive stability and premium comfort established by its predecessors.

The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, developed through extensive research and testing, works in harmony with the body’s natural movement to provide dynamic stability.

It helps guide the foot through a more efficient stride, delivering high levels of comfort and stability even in demanding conditions. 

Staying true to the ASICS Design Philosophy, the GEL-KAYANO 32 shoe introduces key refinements to enhance both comfort and stability.

The midsole features updated FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, a lightweight and responsive material that delivers a soft feel with an energetic rebound.

An additional 2mm of foam under the forefoot enhances softness and cushioning, while an updated midsole design with a lighter foam compound makes the shoe even lighter than the previous model.

Additionally, PureGEL technology ensures superior shock absorption and smooth transitions, offering runners a more effortless ride. 

The engineered mesh upper has been thoughtfully redesigned to deliver a softer, more comfortable feel throughout every run.

Additionally, the reinforced stable tongue wing is crafted to adapt to the unique arch shape of each runner, offering enhanced midfoot support on the medial side.

Together with the updated upper and tongue wing construction, the GEL-KAYANO 32 shoe provides an improved, more personalised fit for an elevated running experience.

The inclusion of HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole enhances traction and durability, reinforcing stability with every stride.

Performance Running Footwear, Plush Silo Development at ASICS, Tomohiro Nishida commented: “ASICS has always strived to deliver premium running stability with unprecedented levels of comfort.  With unique approaches like the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM and PureGEL technology, we have delivered adaptive stability and superior comfort”.

“The GEL-KAYANO 32 shoe continues this journey of continuous improvement, incorporating impactful refinements to further enhance the comfort of the running experience. We are excited to see runners enjoy its plush cushioning, smooth ride and trusted support.” 

Price retailing from RM749, the GEL-KAYANO 32 will be available from 1st June at ASICS stores and ASICS.COM.  

PETALING JAYA, May 29th – ASICS Malaysia’s Ladies Pickleball Special 2025 saw a celebration of strength, laughter and sisterhood 96 women involving mothers, daughters, career professionals and retirees who gathered on the courts last week – paddles in hand and smiles on their faces, united by a shared passion that has made pickleball Malaysia’s fastest-trending sport among the sporting community.

“At ASICS Malaysia, we believe sport is far more than just effort. Its a powerful way to forge friendships, build confidence and strengthen community,” said Country Manager ASICS Malaysia, Boon Tib Soom Nik when met during the event.

“This tournament is our tribute to every woman who shows up for herself and uplifts those around her, embodying our ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ ethos in every serve and volley.”

One participant, Nurul Azni Mustafa, 39, a full-time engineer and mother of three, prioritises her well-being through pickleball despite the demands of her career and family.

“There are days when motherhood and work can feel overwhelming. Pickleball gives me a mental boost. I remember visiting my hometown once and not playing for a few days. I just didn’t feel like myself. The moment I came back, I knew I had to get back on court,” Azni shares at the ASICS Ladies Pickleball Special 2025.

More importantly, sports have become a meaningful way for Azni to connect with her children.

“We play together and it’s helped us grow closer. I get to talk more with my daughter. It’s like we’ve become friends.”

Her doubles partner, 37-years old school teacher, Ashamira Abdul Malik echos the same sentiment.

“Pickleball is more than just a sport for us. It brings us together no matter how busy our lives get. For my kids, it’s a great way to explore, learn discipline and time management. Without it, life would feel a little dull. It’s our family’s way of reconnecting, having fun and communicating better.”

At 59, Negeri Sembilan native Norbaini Bahudin proves that age is no barrier. Introduced to pickleball five years ago, she now plans early morning sessions with her husband and family.

“Pickleball helps release stress and keeps you strong mentally and physically. Age is just a number, don’t let it limit you. Keep your body and mind moving and do what you love,” she says.

“Pickleball quickly became a bit of an obsession,” Kara Simon laughs.

“I love competitive sports because they challenge you mentally. It builds my mental strength, especially when life gets overwhelming. What I truly cherish is the community. People come from all walks of life with no judgment. It’s uplifting. After winning a game earlier, my opponent came over to say – ‘You did a great job.’ That support keeps me going,” said the 36-year-old who works in UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.

Having been introduced to the sport just last year by her father-in-law, Kara now plays four to five times a week, finding both solace and strength on the court.

“The sport has grown so much, especially for women. Every tournament I’ve joined has categories for all age groups and skill levels – and seeing so many women participate today was amazing. Pickleball helps us stay active and gives us a break from daily stress. It’s like a little escape. Plus, it’s brought my family closer,” Kara shares.

For 27-year-old Lee Kar Yee, pickleball has become her stress reliever.

“It not only helps me stay physically fitter but also improves the mental focus in my daily life,” she shares with a smile.

Kar Yee now hopes for more women-centric platforms in the sport.

“I really hope Malaysia organises more ladies-only tournaments. I believe it would empower more women to step onto the court,” she adds.

ASICS’ themed tournaments run every quarter and this May’s spotlight on women, sets the stage for the next tournament in August.

To join the movement and enjoy exclusive perks, check out the OneASICS membership program at https://www.asics.com/my/en-my/mk/oneasicsmy.

MELAKA, June 5th – Its not about winning the race but its all about determination. That what happened at the Under 12 MOE-MSSM- MILO Cross Country held in Jasin, Melaka today.

Twelve year-old Muhammad Muiz Mohd Khairuz Zaiem had something to be proud off when he appeared on track to challenge for a podium finish. A collision with another runner disrupted his pace and sent him into painful cramp.

Rather than yield to discomfort, Muiz dug deep, settling into a determined walk-run gait that carried him across the finish line in under 28 minutes to an eruption of cheers. That display of courage quickly captured the nation’s attention.

His father, Mohd Khairuz Zaiem Mohmood Nor, shared the decisive moments on Instagram reminding Malaysians that “sport is the greatest teacher”.

Coach Maleeq Ridz (@maleeq.ridz on TikTok) and content creator Saidi Yusof both helped spread the story, making it one of most defining moments at this year’s MOE-MSSM- MILO series opener and inspiring fellow students to carry that same resolve throughout the season.

Zaiem, a 40-year-old installation technician for CCTV and air-conditioning systems, first took up running during the COVID-19 pandemic after his doctor warned that his health markers were borderline.

“I was a long-distance runner in school so I knew the benefits, yet nothing prepared me for how our whole family would embrace the sport.”

A father to five children, four of whom have taken up running and are already making waves.

His eldest, Muhammad Mursyid, 15, competes at state level; 12-year-old Muiz captured hearts in Jasin; 11-year-old Muhammad Mustaqim has reached district finals and Rania, now eight, proudly represents her school in local meets. Little Raesa, five, watches on and surely to follow in their footsteps one day.

Raising four junior runners brings its share of expenses especially shoes, nutrition and travel but Zaiem considers every ringgit invested in their aspirations.

He’s especially grateful to friends and his school community for outfitting them and backing them at out-of-state races.

“It’s a joyful commitment. Seeing them cross the finish line makes every sacrifice worthwhile.”

His dedication extends beyond logistics – evening runs, early morning drills and post dinner schoolwork sessions are all part of the family’s rhythm.

Muiz’s feat in Melaka is more than a personal triumph and it illustrates MILO’s creed – ‘Sports is a Great Teacher’.

Through adversity on the course, he discovered resilience through regular practice and he has embraced discipline and the value of teamwork. Those same qualities shine at school, where as head boy and Scouts leader, he demonstrates strong academic focus and community spirit.

Off the track, Muiz maintains stellar grades -ranking third in his year while balancing his co-curricular commitments.

“I aim to improve with every race, drawing inspiration from my idol Haziq Hamzah and I hope to one day don Malaysia’s colours.”

Looking ahead, Muiz eyes district trials in sprints and hurdles, dreaming of one day representing Malaysia on the national stage.

For Zaiem, the ultimate reward is watching his children lace up with courage and run towards their potential as each stride a testament to a family’s belief in sport’s power to shape character.

In Besut, formal coaching is scarce. Determined to fill the gap, Zaiem has enrolled in a certified coaching course with WAC Level 2 mid and long-distance accreditation due this December.

Zaiem hopes to pass on these values as a certified coach, nurturing the next generation of resilient runners in his hometown.

Through their shared triumphs and setbacks, the Zaiem family underlines a powerful truth in every fall and every stride, grit prevails – and that is the heartbeat of MOE-MSSM- MILO.