Cycling Champion Azizulhasni Awang Receives Prestigious Darjah Bakti Award

Malaysian track cycling star Datuk Mohd. Azizulhasni Awang has achieved a significant national honor, receiving the Darjah Bakti (DB) award from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim.

The presentation took place during the Investiture Ceremony for Federal Orders, Stars, and Medals 2026, held in conjunction with the King's Official Birthday at Istana Negara. Mohd. Azizulhasni becomes the third national athlete to be bestowed this prestigious award, joining badminton legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei, who received it in 2021, and squash queen Datuk Nicol Ann David, who received it in 2024.

This recognition is considered the nation's highest acknowledgment of his excellence and continuous contributions to elevating the status of cycling in Malaysia and strengthening the country's reputation globally. The Darjah Bakti, established on June 26, 1975, is among the highest federal honors, awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service and made extraordinary contributions to the nation and internationally across various fields. The award is limited to 10 recipients at any given time and does not confer any title.

Mohd. Azizulhasni, widely known as "The Pocket Rocketman," is celebrated as one of Malaysia's most successful athletes. Over two decades, he has brought honor to Malaysia on the international stage. His achievements include winning the keirin event at the 2017 UCI Track Cycling World Championships in Hong Kong, a silver medal in the same event at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and a bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics. He has also secured numerous medals at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and other international competitions. In early May, he demonstrated his continued prowess by winning a silver and two bronze medals at the Japan Track Cup series in Shizuoka, and he also won the keirin event at the UCI Track World Cup 2026 in Nilai.