KUALA LUMPUR – National track cycling icon Datuk Azizulhasni Awang has delivered a blunt wake-up call to Malaysia’s next generation, warning that talent alone will count for little if they remain trapped in their comfort zones.
The 38-year-old Olympic medallist stressed that young riders must learn to embrace pressure rather than shy away from it, insisting that the demands and scrutiny of elite sport are essential in shaping champions.
Azizulhasni, widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest cyclists, said the harsh criticism and intense expectations he faced early in his career were instrumental in forging both his mental resilience and physical edge.
“As a young rider, you must be prepared to shoulder pressure and never run away from high expectations. That is where real growth begins — where your performance improves, and your true strength as an athlete is tested,” he told Scoop when contacted.
“In my own journey, I went through a phase where the criticism was relentless, and the pressure was immense. It was not easy, but those experiences hardened me.
“They built my mental toughness and strengthened me physically, allowing me to compete consistently at the highest level.”
At the same time, Azizulhasni reminded riders within the national programme that they carry a significant responsibility, as their development is funded by public money.
He emphasised that representing Malaysia is not merely about personal ambition, but about honouring the trust placed in them by taxpayers.
“Every rider in this programme is supported by funding from the Youth and Sports Ministry, which ultimately comes from the rakyat. That means there is a responsibility to give back through results and performances that justify that investment,” he said.
“That is also one of the reasons I made the decision to step away from the national set-up previously. I wanted to ensure that the available resources could be channelled more effectively towards developing the younger riders who are coming through.”
He added that the current crop of cyclists can no longer point to a lack of support as an excuse, noting that they already have access to the necessary facilities, coaching, and exposure.
“They have the structure, they have the support system, and they have the opportunities. Now it is up to them to prove themselves on the track,” he said.
“This is their moment — not just to participate, but to show that they are capable of stepping up and carrying Malaysian cycling forward on the world stage.”
Azizulhasni made history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by winning silver in the keirin, Malaysia’s first-ever Olympic silver medal in track cycling, adding to his bronze medal at Rio 2016 in the same event. - April 21, 2026
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