The attention of Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh has been captured by a differently-abled boy who gained recognition from Malaysians for his determination to finish a race while using crutches. Yeoh, referring to the boy as having a “champion’s mentality”, stated that the ministry will provide support for Muhammad Aqil Naufal Zahiran, 11, to participate in future sports events. In the coming week, the ministry, through the National Sports Institute (NSI), has arranged a meeting between Muhammad Aqil and a prosthetics expert.
ALSO READ: Viral video of teacher running with disabled student touches social media users
A statement from Yeoh on Wednesday (Aug 30) expressed her admiration for Muhammad Aqil’s determination and praised his efforts. She emphasized the importance of his mindset, which aligns with the Road to Gold initiative, and assured her commitment to help him achieve his best.
A video clip recently went viral on TikTok, showing Muhammad Aqil, an amputee, competing in a 100m race using crutches at the Jerantut District School Sports Council (MSSD) special education athletics tournament 2023. Despite his physical limitations, social media users lauded his tenacity and perseverance. Netizens also commended a teacher who ran alongside Muhammad Aqil to motivate him.
As an Inclusive Education Programme (PPI) student at SK Felda Lepar Utara 1, Muhammad Aqil had his left leg amputated in 2015 due to a bacterial infection.
@faridkamaruddin18 Aku tahu kau orang paling kuat dik. Terima kaseh cikgu bagi sokongan sehingga ke penamat. #luarbiasa #ppki #fyp Jangan Pernah Menyerah – Arnas19
.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
