Kuala lumpur: Former national lawn bowler Siti Zalina Ahmad is the first ever Malaysian and Asian to be inducted into the World Bowls Hall of Fame after being listed this year. She expressed her honor, stating that her contributions to the sport for over two decades prior to retiring in 2023 were acknowledged by World Bowls, the international governing body.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Siti Zalina received numerous congratulatory messages following World Bowls’ announcement on social media last month. Initially dissatisfied, she verified the news on the organization’s website and was surprised by the announcement. It was only several days later that she received a confirmation email. She shared this experience with reporters at the World Bowls Hall of Fame gala dinner.

The prestigious award was presented by the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, who serves as the royal patron of Bowls Malaysia. The ceremony was attended by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. Siti Zalina’s notable achievements include winning two consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medals in 2002 and 2006, along with a bronze medal at the 2008 World Championship.

At 46, Siti Zalina continues her involvement in the sport by playing for the Royal Malaysia Police, training various teams, and participating in non-governmental organizations to assist the needy. Besides her, World Bowls inducted over 20 lawn bowl legends from around the globe, including notable figures such as Ryan Bester (Canada), Darren Burnett (Scotland), Lynsey Clarke (Australia), Jo Edwards (New Zealand), and Robert Weale (Wales).