Kuala lumpur: Discus thrower Muhammad Irfan Shamsuddin and para track cyclist Mohamad Yusof Hafizi Shaharuddin have each been selected as recipients of the Special Award at the Sportswriters Association of Malaysia (SAM)-100PLUS Awards 2025.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SAM vice-president and chairman of the SAM-100PLUS Awards 2025 organising committee, Mohd Hazreen Nor Mubarak, expressed that the achievements of both athletes required sacrifices beyond training on the field. He emphasized that the recognition is intended to inspire not only Muhammad Irfan and Mohamad Yusof but also emerging talents in the national sports arena, highlighting that success demands sacrifice and patience.

Muhammad Irfan's continued dominance in discus was marked by his gold medal and new Games record at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. This achievement solidified his status as a Southeast Asian champion, as he secured his seventh consecutive gold medal since 2013 in Myanmar.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Yusof made history by becoming Malaysia's first para athlete to wear the prestigious Rainbow Jersey after winning gold in the MC1 200-metre flying sprint event at the 2025 Para Track Cycling World Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Additionally, Allianz Malaysia Berhad was recognized with a Special Award for its role in badminton development through the Allianz Junior Badminton Championship (AJBC).

The SAM-100PLUS Awards 2025, scheduled for Wednesday, will be officiated by Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari. The event will also feature awards for Best Athlete, Best Para Athlete, and Dynamic Sports Association.

Besides celebrating athletes who have brought glory to Malaysia, the event will honor sports journalists with cash prizes totaling over RM65,000 across six categories, including Best News Report and Best Sports Photography.