Unsung Hero: Disabled Athlete Wins Gold, But Faces Funding Struggle

Malaysian Muay Thai Athlete with Disability Wins Gold, Faces Funding Challenges Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Muhammad Firdaus Aiman, a Malaysian Muay Thai athlete with a disability, recently achieved a remarkable victory, winning a gold medal at the 2025 World Muay Thai Championships in Antalya, Turkey. Despite his triumph, Aiman's story highlights a concerning lack of support for athletes with disabilities in Malaysia. In an exclusive interview with MalaysiaGazette at the Taman Melawati Food Court, Kuala Lumpur, Aiman shared his experience: "A week before the competition, I received a call from the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS). They asked if I had any sponsors. I mentioned a potential sponsor in Turkey, but not in Malaysia." Aiman's situation underscores the need for improved support systems for disabled athletes. His story is not only one of personal triumph, but also a call for broader societal recognition of the potential and contributions of athletes with disabilities. The Malaysian Muay Thai Association's efforts to find athletes with disabilities are commendable, but more needs to be done to provide adequate funding and support. Aiman's story serves as a powerful reminder that talent and dedication transcend physical limitations. His gold medal is a testament to his perseverance, and his story inspires hope for greater inclusivity and support for athletes with disabilities in Malaysia.