A Malaysian lawmaker secured one million ringgit in corporate donations for his district after finishing an extreme endurance competition on Langkawi island on Sunday. Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who represents Muar in parliament, completed the Ironman Malaysia Championship's swimming, cycling and running segments in 12 hours, 22 minutes and 18 seconds.
The 32-year-old politician said he pushed through illness and vomiting during the race because constituents remained foremost in his thoughts. Local fashion firm Prima Valet had promised the seven-figure contribution if he finished under 13 hours, with funds designated for community food programs, computer equipment and holiday clothing. Syed Saddiq bettered his previous year's performance by nearly an hour despite struggling through the marathon portion while feeling unwell.
The former youth and sports minister told reporters he entered the triathlon to challenge himself physically and mentally. He vowed to compete again next year and expressed hope of continuing participation even at age 100 to maintain fitness. Strong leadership in any field requires personal strength, he added.
The 32-year-old politician said he pushed through illness and vomiting during the race because constituents remained foremost in his thoughts. Local fashion firm Prima Valet had promised the seven-figure contribution if he finished under 13 hours, with funds designated for community food programs, computer equipment and holiday clothing. Syed Saddiq bettered his previous year's performance by nearly an hour despite struggling through the marathon portion while feeling unwell.
The former youth and sports minister told reporters he entered the triathlon to challenge himself physically and mentally. He vowed to compete again next year and expressed hope of continuing participation even at age 100 to maintain fitness. Strong leadership in any field requires personal strength, he added.
