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When it comes to sports, seeing the Jalur Gemilang represented on the international stage can make us feel extremely proud
However, the result we see is usually only part of the story. Behind it are years of training, difficult decisions and the commitment required to compete at the highest level.
Here are three stories that show what Malaysian athletes have achieved and how they have contributed to their respective sports:
Known as Malaysia's "Flying Sikh", Karamjit Singh began rallying professionally in 1985 and eventually went on to become the country's most successful rally driver
Known as Malaysia's "Flying Sikh", Karamjit Singh began rallying professionally in 1985 and eventually went on to become the country's most successful rally driver.
His biggest achievement came in 2002, when he became the first Asian driver to win the FIA Production Car World Rally Championship, achieving the feat on his first attempt.
He also won the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship in 2001, 2002 and 2004, helping to establish Malaysia as a serious competitor in international rallying.
What's amazing is that Karamjit remains active in the sport at 64, and he hopes Malaysia can revive its rallying scene and create opportunities for experienced drivers to pass their knowledge to younger talents.
Mohd Khafiz Bachok, better known as Kicok, first set his sights on Mount Everest in 1997
Before attempting the world's highest mountain, he spent years building his experience across almost 70 mountains around the world. His climbs include Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Aconcagua, Manaslu and Carstensz Pyramid.
He also made major financial and personal sacrifices to pursue mountaineering. Kicok sold his furniture business and later his home to fund his expeditions and focus on training.
In July 2023, he became the second Malaysian to reach the summit of K2, which is widely considered one of the world's most dangerous mountains.
He finally reached the 8,848.86-metre summit of Everest on 18 May 2026, becoming the 30th Malaysian to accomplish the feat.
The achievement fulfilled a long-held personal ambition while adding another name to Malaysia's growing history in international mountaineering.
Kicok now hopes to become the first Malaysian to climb all 14 of the world's peaks above 8,000 metres.
Syahir, Azfan, and Aiman are part of a new chapter for Malaysian sepak takraw, ending a 34-year gold medal drought
Sepak takraw has long been part of Malaysia's sporting identity, with Syahir, Azfan and Aiman among the players carrying it forward.
At the 2025 SEA Games, the national men's team recovered from losing the opening regu to defeat hosts Thailand 2-1 in the team regu final.
The victory ended Malaysia's 34-year wait for gold in the event.
The result showcased the team's strength under pressure, giving Malaysians a moment to be proud of and its current generation a major achievement to build on.
Now, Malaysians can discover the stories behind these sporting journeys at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad
These athletes have represented Malaysia in very different settings, but each has contributed to the country's sporting history.
As part of its Merdeka and Malaysia Day celebrations, U Mobile is highlighting the journeys of Malaysia's sporting heroes through an interactive experience at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad from now until 16 September.
Visitors can learn more about the athletes, their achievements and the work behind some of Malaysia's notable sporting moments.
If you're in the area, drop by to discover the stories of the people who have represented Malaysia through sport.
