Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman: Carrying Malaysia’s Flag with Pride

Exclusive Azlan Shah: A story of dreams, challenges, and the unbreakable spirit of a Malaysian racer who continues to fly the flag high.

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for instant updates!

As Malaysia celebrates its 68th Merdeka, we shine the spotlight on national athletes who have carried our flag to the world stage. Among them is Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman, a true icon in Malaysian motorsports whose journey has inspired generations of young riders.

Today, at 40 years old, Azlan is proving that age is just a number. He’s back in action with the A1 Energy BMW Racing Team, racing the powerful BMW M1000RR in the ASB1000 category alongside his teammate, Thailand’s Apiwath Wongthananon, the reigning Supersport 600 champion. 

At the same time, he’s building the future of Malaysian racing through his AS25 Racing Team, which recently partnered with Voge Malaysia to launch the FR150 Formica Rossa for both the Malaysian Cub Prix Championship and the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). 

Balancing the roles of racer, mentor, and team principal, Azlan continues to fly the Jalur Gemilang proudly, both on the track and in the paddock. His story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and above all, love for Malaysia. This Merdeka, we sat down with Azlan to reflect on his journey, his comeback, and what carrying the Malaysian flag truly means to him. 

When you first started racing in Cub Prix and later carried Malaysia’s flag on the world stage, what did it mean to you as a rider?

“It was a dream come true. To start from Cub Prix and later carry the Malaysian flag on the international stage made me feel proud, not only for myself but for my country. Every time I lined up on the grid overseas, I carried the spirit of Malaysia with me, knowing that I was representing every young rider who dared to dream.”

Back in Moto2, especially when you finished 4th at Motegi, how did you feel knowing you were racing among the best in the world?

“That race in Motegi is still one of the highlights of my career. To fight among the best in the world gave me confidence that Malaysians can compete at the highest level. It wasn’t just about my result, but about showing that with hard work and belief, we belong on the world stage.”

In 2019, you became the inaugural ASB1000 champion in ARRC, yet you later faced serious sponsorship challenges, even racing without wages. How did those latter experiences influence your perspective on resilience and the importance of support systems for athletes?

“Winning ASB1000 in 2019 was a huge achievement, but the challenges that came after taught me even more. Racing without wages, struggling with sponsorship, it tested my mental strength. Those moments reminded me that resilience is built in the toughest times. It also showed me how important support systems are for athletes. Without family, true friends, and loyal fans, it’s easy to give up. Their support kept me going.”

Even after announcing retirement, you came back to race again in 2025. What made you return, and what do you hope to show young riders with this comeback?

“Racing is in my blood, and I realized I still have more to give. Coming back in 2025 is not only about chasing results, but also about inspiring the next generation. I want young riders to see that no matter how many setbacks you face, passion and determination will always bring you back stronger.”

Now that you’re also training, coaching and guiding new riders, what is the most important advice you want to give to the next generation of Malaysian racers?

“Never give up on your dream, even when it feels impossible. Discipline, respect, and hard work are more important than talent alone. If you believe in yourself and stay consistent, you will find your way. Most importantly, always remember you are carrying the hopes of Malaysia on your shoulders and ride with pride.”

Still Flying the Flag High

This weekend, Azlan is racing at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Indonesia, for Round 4 of ARRC, proving that his passion and spirit remain as strong as ever.

As Malaysia marks 68 years of independence, Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman’s story reminds us that Merdeka is not only about remembering our history but also about carrying our identity proudly into the future. His journey, from Cub Prix beginnings to the world stage and back as a mentor, embodies the very spirit of Merdeka: resilience, unity, and pride in the Jalur Gemilang.

Good luck in Mandalika, Azlan! From all of us at iMotorbike, we’ll always be cheering you on.