Mohd Hafizul Tuah believes in the proverb "nothing ventured, nothing gained" and his victory at this year's Mr Malaysia bodybuilding championships cements this conviction further.
The police lance-corporal was adjudged the best among nine category champions at the finale of the three-day national competition, hosted by Malacca Amateur Weightlifting and Bodybuilding Association (MAWBA) at SJK(C) Pay Teck.
Earlier, the 29'year-old won the Light Heavyweight (85-90kg) category, which earned him a spot in the Champion of Champions showdown.
Hafizul was unable to contain his emotions when he was announced as the overall winner.
''I have been involved in this sport since 2016 and have been working hard to make a name for myself, so it's a bit surreal and overwhelming to be receiving such a recognition," said the Kuching-born bodybuilder, who joined the police force in 2009.
On his preparations for Mr Malaysia 2018, Hafizul said it was not an easy journey as many a time, he had to dig deep into his own pockets to cover his expenses for meals and supplements.
However, he said, he was fortunate to have a solid support system comprising his family, colleagues and officers-in-charge at Hilir Perak District police headquarters in Perak.
"My special thanks to officers Supt Gazali Yunos and Sjn Othman Yahya Othman is also my coach and he never fails to remind me about my training every day," he said Hafizul was also excited to have the Sarawak team cheering him on, despite him representing the force at the championships.
'I may represent the police force, but I'm forever proud to be a Sarawakian,' he said.
The Kuala Lumpur squad won the most Hafizul says he is fortunate have the support his family, colleagues and superiors on his journey to victory in the Mr Malaysia bodybuilding championships, overall points to emerge Best Contingent of Mr Malaysia 2018. The police came in second while Sarawak earned third spot in the rankings.
Ayer Keroh assemblyman Kerk Chee Yee launched the event together with Malaysian Bodybuilding Federation (MBBF) president Datuk Dr Gan Boon Leong, MBBF deputy president Mej-Jen (Rtd) Datuk Dr Ahmad Badrus Othman and Mr Malaysia 2018 organising chairman Datuk Gan Tian Loo.