Popular Sports in Malaysia: From Badminton to Motor Racing

Introduction

Sports in Malaysia are not mere entertainment for audiences or careers for athletes. The entire country engages with sports as a cultural phenomenon, shaping their identity and inspiring generations. It is, therefore, no surprise that Malaysians embrace many sports, from internationally acclaimed ones like badminton and motor racing to traditional games like sepak takraw.

Participation goes beyond merely supporting big top teams or popular athletes. Malaysians engage in sport on a cultural level, leveraging it as a bridge between people from different ethnicities. This connection adds a layer of unity to the country's diverse ethnicities and rich cultures.

This article will explore popular sports in Malaysia, the top athletes in each, and how they help shape the country’s passion. You can visit the 1Win official site to see how you can bet on the world of sports Malaysia is building.

1.Badminton – Malaysia’s Number One Sport

Malaysians love sports, but none more than badminton. It is regarded as the Malaysia national sport, and this title stems from decades of earning the country remarkable achievements in the international community. From when the British colonialists first introduced it, it gained popularity and remained a part of the culture till now.

Over time, badminton grew from a recreational activity to a competitive sport embraced by the whole country. Clubs and tournaments were created, laying the foundation for Malaysia’s decades of dominance as a badminton powerhouse. In the mid-1990s, badminton rose to a new height in Malaysia after its success at the All England Championships and the Olympics. The players who brought honours became legends and still enjoy adulation to date.

Legends of the Game

When Malaysian badminton players are mentioned, the names that come to mind include icons like Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Wong Peng Soon, Eddy Choong, and Rashid Sidek. At the top of the rank is Lee, a three-time Olympic silver medalist and former world number one. He was known for his skill, dedication, and sportsmanship, inspiring a generation of Malaysians to take up the sport.

Lee’s iconic status does not take away from others, especially Soon and Choong, who championed Malaysia’s dominance at the legendary All England Championships. There is also Sidek, a key member of the celebrated 1992 Thomas Cup team. They all remain role models for younger athletes aspiring to national and global stardom.

Major Tournaments

Malaysia’s investment in badminton includes competitive tournaments that prepare its athletes for global competition and fan the embers of the sport’s popularity domestically. The most important domestic competition for the athletes and fans is the Malaysia Open. Top players from around the world participate in the tournament, which the Badminton World Federation recognises.

Meanwhile, the Olympics remains the highest peak for any professional athlete to aspire to, including badminton players. Malaysian badminton players contribute most to the country’s medal tally at every Olympic Games, and the fans reward them for their efforts with adoration.

2.Football – A Sport for the Masses

Football is the most popular sport worldwide but only the second most famous in Malaysia. Although it is not as beloved as badminton, many Malaysians love football and either play it or support it as fans. The country’s commitment to growing its football culture is evident in its creation of the Malaysia Super League (MSL) in 2004.

As the country's top league, the MSL provides a platform for young talents to develop and succeed. It has grown to have highly skilled players who go on to play in some of the top leagues in the world, and it has also attracted top talents from other countries. From its investments in infrastructure to competitive matches, the MSL keeps growing the popularity of football in the country.

Clubs and Fans

Another aspect of Malaysian football that boosts its popularity in the country is the existence of clubs. From the top team, Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), to others like Selangor FC and Kedah Darul Aman FC, the competition in the league is fierce. JDT’s dominance is noteworthy, as it dominates domestic competitions and attains international recognition with victories in the AFC Cup.

While its success has given it millions of fans, JDT is not the only team enjoying fan support. Other clubs, like Selangor and Kedah, also have loyal fans who celebrate the teams and drive the culture of support for football in Malaysia.

International Performance

Malaysia has been very mellow on the football international stage recently, but fans still yearn for the glory days that once existed. In the 1970s, football reached its peak of popularity in Malaysia when the national team qualified for the 1972 Munich Olympics. It was a monumental period in Malaysia's sports history and was succeeded by wins in multiple regional tournaments.

The glory days are long gone, but the passion still drives Malaysians to support the sport. The national team keeps participating in international events like the AFF Championship and SEA Games while millions cheer them on. The country also invests in development programs to improve the team’s performance and build the next generation for success.

3.Motor Racing – High-Speed Passion

Fewer sports, such as motor racing, have enjoyed enduring popularity and success in Malaysia. The roar of engines ignites millions, and the thrill of speed retains the attention of enthusiasts. Superstars like Hafizh Syahrin, popularly known as “Pescao”, and Jazeman Jaafar, inspire young fans to dream of competing professionally later in life. Many others are content with being in the audience and driving attendance higher at motor racing events.

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Its Impact

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) plays a massive role in the popularity of motor racing in Malaysia. Established in 1999, this state-of-the-art facility has hosted some of the most notable domestic motor racing events. It hosted the Former 1 Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 and the MotoGP Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

SIC has cemented its position as a symbol of Malaysia’s love for motor racing in more ways than hosting top tournaments. Its challenging layout and unique racing conditions fascinate drivers and riders. Additionally, it serves as a hub for motorsport culture in Malaysia, hosting events, festivals, and training programs related to the sport.

The Popularity of MotoGP in Malaysia

Malaysian fans look forward to two motor racing events: Formula 1 and MotoGP. While the former gained early fame, the latter retained relevance and popularity for longer. Malaysian motorsport fans love MotoGP primarily because motorcycles are widely used daily.

As a developing country, motorcycles are more affordable and available to regular people for daily transportation. The popularity of motorcycles makes MotoGP more relatable and enjoyable to many Malaysians, who imagine themselves as the drivers enjoying the adoration of many.

Local Heroes

Global icons like Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez are very popular in Malaysia but not as beloved as local heroes. Malaysians take great pride in riders like Hafizh Syahrin (Pescao) and Jazeman Jaafar, who have represented the country well on the international motor racing stages.

Pescao became a national icon after becoming the first Southeast Asian to compete full-time in the MotoGP premier class. Jaafar, on the other hand, has represented Malaysia on global stages, including in Formula Renault and 24 Hours of Le Mans. These two inspire many who dream of playing professionally on the biggest stages one day and others who simply enjoy watching the sport.

4.Rugby and Cricket – A Legacy of British Influence

Rugby and cricket, like badminton, were introduced to Malaysia by the British during colonial rule. While they are not as popular as badminton, they still enjoy loyal support from many, who support the small circles of participants nationwide.

Rugby

Rugby was introduced through schools and military institutions, making those places the focus for decades. The sport gradually spread across social classes and ethnicities, enjoying widespread acceptance in states like Selangor, Johor, and Sabah. It was readily embraced due to its emphasis on values like teamwork and discipline, which resonates with younger players.

The Malaysia Rugby Union is key in promoting the sport, organising tournaments and nurturing talents. Its tournaments include the Malaysia Rugby League and the Royal Selangor Club Rugby 10s. At the local level, rugby is characterized by schools and universities participating in regional competitions. The national teams also perform well in international events like the Southeast Asian Games.

Cricket

Most countries Britain colonised in South Asia share the cricket culture. It is India's unofficial national sport and very popular in Pakistan and other parts of the Indian subregion. Therefore, it is no surprise that the sport is very popular within the Indian and Pakistani communities in Malaysia. It serves as a cultural bridge for these populations, with others engaging with it on differing levels.

There are various efforts to promote the sport in Malaysia, especially from the Malaysian Cricket Association, the Kuala Lumpur Cricket Club, and the Kinrara Oval. The Association oversees domestic leagues and facilitates international engagements, such as participation in ICC tournaments. Meanwhile, the Kuala Lumpur Cricket Club and the Kinrara Oval host local tournaments and some international matches.

5.Water Sports – Enjoying the Ocean

Malaysia's beautiful coastlines and tropical climate make it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. While most locals and tourists enjoy exploring the islands as a pastime, water sports are also beloved in the country.

Diving and Surfing

No other country in Southeast Asia can rival Malaysia as a diving hotspot. From top destinations like Sipadan Island to Pulau Redang, the vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and stunning waters make playing water sports exciting. The calm waters of Langkawi are also popular for snorkelling and diving.

Although not as popular as diving, surfing is also a top choice for water sports lovers in Malaysia. Beginners can enjoy learning with the calm waves in areas like Cherating, while experienced surfers can brace for the challenge of larger swells that come with seasonal monsoons.

Rowing and Sailing

The recreational popularity that diving and surfing enjoy is different from the competitive seriousness of rowing and sailing as two other watersports Malaysians love. The country has established various competitive events and clubs to foster interest in the sport and prepare its athletes for international performances.

The Royal Selangor Yacht Club and the Langkawi Yacht Club promote sailing by hosting regattas like the Royal Langkawi International Regatta. The Malaysian Rowing Association does the most regarding rowing promotion and talent development. It prepares Malaysian athletes for events like the SEA Games, where they can capture global attention.

6.Traditional Sports – Cultural Heritage

Malaysia is a diverse nation, rich with cultures, some of which are related to sports. Some of these sports have been passed down through generations and are seen as expressions of national pride. They are often performed almost as recreationally as professionally. Some remarkable traditional sports include

Sepaktakraw

Also known as ‘Sepak Raga,’ this unique ball game requires agility and athleticism. It is played with a rattan ball and combines elements of football and volleyball. Players use their feet, head, knees, and chest to keep the ball in the air. They score points by performing high-flying kicks and dives, keeping the culture alive, especially in rural settings.

Silat

Silat is Malaysia’s traditional martial art. It is often used for self-defence but also performed competitively in tournaments. The game features fluid movements, powerful strikes, and complex footwork, with styles differing slightly across the country. Silat is a comprehensive discipline with physical and philosophical aspects that promote Malaysia's spiritual and cultural values.

Other traditional games include:

• Kokko, played with a small ball and sticks.
• Batu seremban, played with five stones.
• Gasing
• Spinning tops.
• Ha-du-du or Kabaddi
• Lathi Khela
• Boli Khela

These games have all been part of Malaysian culture for generations and hold great symbolic value to the people.

Conclusion

Sport is an integral part of Malaysian life, serving as entertainment and a source of national pride. Global and traditional sporting activities help to improve unity and deepen the spirit of communication among participants. The variety and diversity of sports, from global sports like badminton and football to traditional games like sepaktakraw, showcase the depth of Malaysians’ connection to sports.

Whether you have participated in sports before or not, consider playing one of the popular sports in Malaysia when you visit the country. It doesn’t have to be badminton, the national sport of Malaysia. You can get adventurous and enjoy some diving or kick your feet back and learn one or two traditional games.

10.12.2024