SEPANG: With only five points to his name after 17 rounds, it has been a tough rookie season for Moto3 rider Syarifuddin Azman.
Syarifuddin is eyeing better luck on home soil at the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, which begins at the Sepang Circuit tomorrow.
The MT Helmets-MSI rider is hoping his familiarity with the track and support from home fans will give him a boost over the weekend.
The 21-year-old finished 24th in Buriram a fortnight ago.
"I had a good chance to rest," said Syarifuddin today.
"I am excited and can't wait to perform in my home race, in front of fans and my family.
"This is one of the tracks that I'm familiar with and understand, so I hope I can give my best and make the most of this opportunity."
Syarifuddin is the only Malaysian full-season rider competing in the world championships this year.
His future remains unclear as his team recently confirmed that they will not be retaining him for next season.
Two other Malaysian riders have been given wildcards for the Malaysian GP — Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Helmi Azman.
They will both be racing in the Moto2 class for Petronas MIE Racing Honda Team.