KUALA LUMPUR – The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, will be presented with the Sports Leadership Icon Award at the Sportswriters Association of Malaysia (SAM)-100PLUS 2025 Awards, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur next Wednesday.
SAM, in a statement today, said the accolade honours His Royal Highness’ exceptional vision and leadership in developing Johor’s sporting ecosystem into one that is professional and internationally recognised, Bernama reported.
As owner of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), Tunku Mahkota Ismail has guided the club to domestic dominance while achieving notable success in Asian competitions, establishing JDT as one of Malaysia’s most influential sports brands.
“His Royal Highness’ holistic approach has strengthened JDT’s branding as a modern, world-class sports organisation through professional management, effective marketing, modern infrastructure, and the use of technology and sports science,” the statement read.
Central to his vision is the creation of a modern football academy and world-class facilities in Johor, laying the groundwork for systematic talent development. This aligns with His Royal Highness’ goal of positioning Johor as a model state for the Sporting Nation agenda by 2030.
His initiatives extend beyond football. Projects such as the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre (TMIYC), and Khabib Gym have further reinforced Johor’s status as a national sports hub. Tunku Mahkota Ismail also supports other disciplines, including rugby, badminton, and motorsports.
In motorsports, the establishment of the JDT Racing Team, featuring national rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, highlights his commitment to promoting local talent while expanding Johor’s presence in elite sports.
SAM Vice President and Chairman of the SAM-100PLUS 2025 Awards Organising Committee, Mohd Hazreen Nor Mubarak, said: “Tunku Mahkota Ismail's holistic and far-sighted approach to sports development has not only raised the standard of sports management in Johor but has also made the state a prime example of a modern sports ecosystem in Malaysia. The presentation of the Sports Leadership Icon Award is an appreciation of His Royal Highness’ dedication, leadership, and significant impact in empowering Johor’s sports development and elevating the state’s image on the international stage.”
The awards ceremony will also feature categories such as Best Young Athlete, Dynamic Sports Association, Best Athlete, Best Para Athlete, and a Special Award. Beyond recognising athletes’ achievements, the event celebrates sports journalists, with total prize money exceeding RM65,000.
The six awards for media professionals include Best News Report (Print), Best News Report (Electronic), Best News Commentary (Print), Best News Commentary (Electronic), Best Special Report (Open), Best Sports Photography, and the Popular Sports Commentator Award. - May 9, 2026
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