Azeem Storms To Sprint Title, Nur Aishah Edges Thriller For Women’s Crown

SERDANG, June 19 (Bernama) -- Muhammad Azeem Mohd Fahmi and Nur Aishah Rofina Aling were crowned sprint king and sprint queen respectively after contrasting wins in the men’s and women’s 100-metre finals at the 2026 Malaysia Open Athletics Championships today.

Perak’s Muhammad Azeem, who holds the national record of 10.09 seconds (s), hit the tape at the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Stadium in 10.21s, with Johor’s Muhammad Airiel Iskandar (10.34s) and Terengganu’s Mohammad Armin Zahryl (10.44s) coming in second and third respectively.

Muhammad Azeem told reporters that he had not set himself a target time for the race as he was still not at his best physically.

“Honestly, I wasn’t targeting a fast time today because I am still tired. I had just finished the NCAA Championships (in the United States) five days ago and only landed in Malaysia on Monday (June 15). But I’m grateful to have the chance to run in front of the home crowd,” he said.

While Muhammad Azeem strolled to the men’s 100m title, Sabah’s Nur Aishah Rofina was pushed to the limit before crossing the finish line in 11.70s, edging a fast-finishing Izzatul Musfirah Ahmad Kamal Azira of Terengganu by just 0.01s.

Team Malaysia University’s Fatin Ilyana May Nayan was third in 12.03s.

Despite the close call, Nur Aishah Rofina was thrilled after breaking her personal best of 11.76s.

“I’m elated because I achieved a PB (personal best), as it’s no easy feat. I’ve waited five to six months to break it,” she said.

Meanwhile, Jonah Chang Anak Rigan lived up to expectations when he won the men’s shot put even with a throw of 18.30 metres (m).

Selangor’s Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli (16.15m) was second and Johor’s Fam Loong Deng (15.33m) was third.

-- BERNAMA