PETALING JAYA, July 17 — Malaysia’s most successful bodybuilder Sazali Samad has won the Mr Universe title 10 times but those accolades did not come without sacrifices.
Among them is staying away from traditional Hari Raya delicacies for nearly 20 years.
Sazali says it is a deed he is happy to continue if it helps maintain his body weight and defend his world title every year.
“Nobody knows this secret except my closest family members. I would not eat anything on Hari Raya except a bite of plain ketupat without any gravy or rendang.
“I also do not touch cookies or lemang. I have been abstaining since 1996, which is the year I started winning the Asian and World Championships.
“It was difficult at first but after all these years, I am used to it. It is a small price to pay for success.
“It has also helped me make my country proud. There is no bigger Raya gift for me than that,” said the 48-year-old who is now busy preparing to win his 11th Mr Universe title (75kg category) in Bangkok, Thailand, in November.
Sazali also has an eye on defending his Mr Asia crown — which he won for the ninth time last year — in Uzbekistan in September.
The father of five recently won his fifth gold medal at the World Police and Fire Games in Virginia, United States.
“I need to remain consistent and stay focussed on winning titles.
“To be a winner, you need to be committed. Most importantly, do it for the country. Because among millions, you are the one chosen to represent Malaysia.”
The sub inspector said he has no special plans to celebrate Hari Raya this year as he is busy training.
“Maybe I will go for a short holiday in Melbourne in August to relax with the family before competing,” he said.
“It is my Raya gift to them, especially my wife (Hashrine Hashim) who has supported my career from the beginning.”
Last year, Sazali created a world record after clinching his 10th Mr Universe title in Mumbai, India. It was also his sixth consecutive win. He previously won in 2000, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
