
High hopes for Hakim to get Moto3 wildcard slot in Malaysian GP
SEPANG: Young motorsports talent Hakim Danish Ramli has a chance to secure a wildcard slot to race in Moto3 this season at this year's Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia on Oct 24-26.
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh had said that the 17-year-old has the opportunity to benefit from the National Sports Trust Fund (KWASN) grant if he achieves positive results in the two championships he is participating in this season.
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New Straits Times
16 hours ago
- New Straits Times
Hakim Danish dedicates Aragon win to all Malaysians
KUALA LUMPUR: Motorcycle racer Hakim Danish Ramli is on track to becoming the first-ever Malaysian to win the Red Bull Rookies Cup title. With the season nearing the halfway mark, Hakim consolidated his position atop the championship standings after winning his first race of the season in Aragon, Spain (race two) yesterday (June 8). The 17-year-old now has 125 points to his name. Spanish duo Brian Uriarte (95 points) and Benat Fernandez (63 points) are second and third in the championship. Hakim dedicated his victory in Aragon, Spain to all Malaysians. Uriarte (+0.188s) and David Gonzalez (+0.195s) finished second and third in race two. "Obviously I'm really happy to win the race as it was quite challenging," said Hakim. "My tyre grip was fading so I had to manage it carefully and try my best to remain patient while staying with the lead group. "On the second last lap I made a mistake and forgot to downshift one more gear. I got overtaken and went down to seventh position. "I quickly focused on catching up and during the last corner was able to get on the throttle earlier and hit the line first. "Thank you to everyone who has supported me, this win is for all Malaysians." With four rounds and eight races remaining this season, the championship fight is far from over though Hakim's consistent performances this season will put pressure on his rivals. The Terengganu-born finished second in all his first five races of the season before winning yesterday. The Red Bull Rookies Cup is one of the key feeder series for the Moto3 World Championship. Former champions in the series who have gone on to shine include Johann Zarco, Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta, among others Last month Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif disclosed that Hakim essentially has a seat waiting for him in Moto3 next season but must first prove himself worthy of the slot. Hakim is a product of SIC's two-wheel talent development programme which is run by ZK Racing. Mugello will host the next round of the Red Bull Rookies Cup on June 21-22.


New Straits Times
a day ago
- New Straits Times
Hakim Danish clinches first win of season in Aragon
f KUALA LUMPUR: Motorcycle racer Hakim Danish Ramli did his chances of securing a seat in Moto3 next year no harm after emerging victorious at the Aragon leg of the Red Bull Rookies Cup today (June 8). Hakim, who finished second in race one yesterday (June 7), went one better in race two today, taking the flag ahead of Spanish duo Brian Uriarte (+0.188s) and David Gonzalez (+0.195s). It was Hakim's first race win of the season - he had placed second in his first five races - and further consolidated his position atop the championship standings with 125 points to his name. It was a commendable achievement for Hakim, who started from seventh on the grid, which is likely to boost his chances of moving up to the Moto3 World Championship next year. Last month Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif disclosed that Hakim essentially has a seat waiting for him in Moto3 next season but must first prove himself worthy of the slot. Hakim is a product of SIC's two-wheel talent development programme which is run by ZK Racing. Mugello will host the next round of the Red Bull Rookies Cup on June 21-22.


The Sun
6 days ago
- The Sun
Daikin Badminton Championship: 1,470 Matches, 10 Countries
THE Daikin International Badminton Championship 2025 concluded yesterday after four days of exciting competition that featured over 1,470 matches and showcased emerging badminton talent from across the region. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh officially closed the tournament, praising the significant scale of participation that brought young athletes from 10 countries to compete in Malaysia's premier youth badminton event. 'It is inspiring to see private sector players like Daikin stepping up to provide young talents with the platform and resources they need to grow,' Yeoh said during her closing address. 'This is the kind of partnership we need to shape the future of Malaysian sports.' Seventh year milestone for regional tournament The championship, now in its seventh consecutive year, has established itself as a major event in the regional youth badminton calendar. Beyond competitive play, organisers emphasised the tournament's role in fostering sportsmanship, resilience, and international friendship among young athletes. This year's edition introduced the new Daikin Cooling Zone, a dedicated rest area designed to help players recharge between matches - a feature reflecting the company's focus on athlete comfort and performance. Corporate commitment to youth development Lawrence Song, Managing Director of Daikin Malaysia Sales & Service Sdn Bhd, highlighted the company's broader vision extending beyond its core business operations. 'At Daikin, we are committed to more than just delivering world-class air solutions. We're here to build a better tomorrow through sports, community, and youth empowerment,' Song explained. 'This tournament reflects our belief in nurturing young talent and providing them with a platform to shine.' Strong community support The tournament received enthusiastic support from the badminton community, with parents, coaches, and sports enthusiasts praising both the event's organisation and positive atmosphere. Behind-the-scenes efforts by volunteers and match officials ensured smooth operations throughout the four-day competition period. The significant participation numbers - with over 1,470 matches across multiple age categories and disciplines - demonstrate the tournament's growing reputation as a premier platform for youth badminton development in Southeast Asia. Continuing legacy Daikin expressed gratitude to all participants, supporters, and partners, particularly acknowledging Yeoh's attendance and encouragement. The company reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to promoting youth development, sustainability, and healthy living as core corporate values. The tournament's success reinforces the important role private sector partnerships play in Malaysian sports development, providing young athletes with high-quality competitive opportunities that can help advance their sporting careers. As the badminton community looks ahead, the Daikin International Badminton Championship continues to serve as a vital stepping stone for the next generation of regional badminton stars.