KUALA LUMPUR: Bodybuilder Datuk Syarul Azman Mahen Abdullah has won the world title six times, and he is now looking for Malaysians to fill his shoes.
Syarul, 51, announced his retirement on Friday after 26 years of flexing his muscles.
"I have been in pain for a long time, since 2001, but I love the sport and continued competing for the country.
"I have been thinking about retirement for some time and I decided that this is the right time for me to retire," said the former KL youth footballer.
"It's time for me to share my experience with the other bodybuilders in the country. Most don't realize that this sport requires a lot of sacrifice in terms of training and diet.
"I hope we can continue to produce world champions from Malaysia after this."
Syarul, who competed in the men's athletic physique (up to 167cm), won his world titles in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022 and last year.
"I need to thank everyone who supported my career as a bodybuilder. It's been a long, hard journey, and I'm grateful for their support. There are so many kind people and well-wishers out there who played a role in my success," said Syarul.
The Malaysia Body Building Federation (MBBF) wants to see more champions like Syarul, and has appointed him as chairman of its development committee to unearth new talent.
MBBF president Major General (rtd) Datuk Dr. Ahmad Badrus Othman said he wants Syarul, fondly known as Mike, to continue contributing to the sport.
"Mike's experience is valuable and we hope he can continue to help our athletes to deliver results," said Ahmad Badrus.