Women Who Ride and Race: Celebrating Malaysian Women in Motorsport

From race tracks to global road adventures, these inspiring Malaysian women continue to break barriers in motorsport.

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In the world of motorsport, the roar of engines and the thrill of competition have traditionally been dominated by men. But over the years, more women have begun carving their own path in the racing world, proving that passion, talent and determination know no gender.

In conjunction with International Women’s Day, we take a look at some inspiring Malaysian women who have made their mark in motorsport and motorcycle culture, each with their own unique journey on the road or racetrack.

Leona Chin – Malaysia’s Queen of Drift and Racing

Leona Chin is one of the most recognisable female figures in Malaysian motorsport. Born and raised in Subang, the 39-year-old professional driver has built a strong reputation both locally and internationally through her racing and drifting career.

Leona first gained widespread attention through drifting competitions and quickly became known for her fearless driving style. Over the years, she has competed in various racing disciplines, including touring car racing, endurance events and drift championships across Asia.

Beyond racing, she has also played a key role in inspiring young Malaysians to pursue motorsport. Whether through driving clinics, brand collaborations or her famous “driving instructor prank video” that went viral worldwide, Leona has shown that women can thrive in what is still largely a male-dominated industry.

For her, motorsport has never been about gender. As she once said, “This is the world I chose to work in.” And she continues to prove that passion and skill matter far more than stereotypes.

Adele Lew – Carrying a Racing Legacy Forward

Another inspiring name in Malaysian motorsport is Adele Lew, a driver who grew up surrounded by the world of racing. For Adele, the thrill of motorsport isn’t just a hobby or career choice, it’s part of her identity.

She is the daughter of Eddie Lew, a respected racing veteran with more than 30 years of experience in motorsport. Growing up in such an environment meant that race tracks, engines and racing culture were a natural part of her childhood.

Inspired by her father’s achievements, Adele developed her own passion for racing at a young age. With the racetrack almost like a playground while growing up, she gradually built the skills and confidence required to compete in the sport.

Today, Adele represents a new generation of Malaysian female racers who are determined to challenge the status quo in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field. Every time she puts on her helmet and takes to the track, she carries with her years of dedication, discipline and the influence of a strong racing heritage.

But for Adele, racing is more than just chasing lap times or podiums. It is about proving that talent and determination have no gender boundaries. Her journey reflects resilience, passion and the courage to challenge stereotypes while continuing the legacy of a racing family.

Saidatul Zakirah – Rising Malaysian Female Motorcycle Racer

Another name steadily rising in the international racing scene is Saidatul Zakirah Zairin, better known among fans simply as Kirah.

Zakirah made Malaysia proud when she secured a podium finish in the QSSP 300 category at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar, showing that Malaysian riders can compete strongly on the global stage.

Returning to the circuit a year after her previous appearance, the #88 rider showed remarkable maturity and composure throughout the race. Competing against experienced riders was never going to be easy, but Zakirah demonstrated impressive discipline and focus.

She eventually finished third with a time of 2 minutes 19.702 seconds, just 12.9 seconds behind the race winner, a strong result considering the challenges she faced leading up to the event.

For Zakirah, the journey is still only beginning. With more international exposure and continued development, she represents the new generation of Malaysian female motorcycle racers aiming to make their mark globally.

Sophia Zara – Malaysia’s Youngest Female Race Car Driver

At just 15 years old, Sophia Zara is already making waves in the local racing scene. While most teenagers are focused on school and everyday life, Sophia is spending her weekends behind the wheel of race cars, competing on circuits across Malaysia. Her talent and determination have quickly earned her recognition as Malaysia’s youngest female race car driver.

Sophia’s ambitions go far beyond local racing. She has her sights set on competing in the F1 Academy, the international racing series created to support and develop female drivers on the pathway to Formula 1.

Her journey is still at an early stage, but she already represents the future of Malaysian women in motorsport, fearless, ambitious and determined to break barriers.

“In five years, I want to be racing internationally, representing Malaysia, and showing girls everywhere that they can do this too,” she said.

Anita Yusof – The Iron Lady Who Rode Around the World

While many stories in motorsport revolve around racing, Anita Yusof represents a different kind of achievement, the spirit of adventure on two wheels.

Known as Malaysia’s “Iron Lady,” Anita is a solo motorcycle traveler who has achieved something extraordinary. After more than six years of riding across the globe, she successfully completed her Global Dream Ride 2 mission, travelling through 81 countries on a Yamaha FZ150i motorcycle.

Her journey took her through some of the world’s most challenging and remote destinations, including Cape Town in South Africa, Ethiopia, Mexico, Alaska and even Antarctica.

The adventure cost nearly RM400,000, but for Anita, the experience was priceless. Beyond the miles travelled, the journey allowed her to connect deeply with different cultures, people and traditions around the world.

At 58 years old, Anita continues to prove that passion for riding has no age limit, and that courage can take you literally around the world.

Celebrating Malaysian Women in Motorsport

From professional racers and endurance drivers to rising young talents and global motorcycle adventurers, these women represent the diverse faces of Malaysian motorsport.

Their journeys may be different, but they share the same spirit, courage, determination and a deep love for speed and freedom.

On International Women’s Day, they remind us that motorsport is no longer just a man’s world. And with more young girls entering racing and riding today, the future of Malaysian women in motorsport may look even brighter than ever.