KUALA LUMPUR – The President of the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF), Datuk Abu Samah Abdul Wahab, passed away today at the Hospital Mahkota Melaka after a battle with stage four prostate cancer. He was 82 years old.
Speaking to Scoop, MNCF vice-president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill expressed his profound sadness, describing Abu Samah as the “epitome of a leader.”
Amarjit, who last visited the deceased on Friday, recalled Abu Samah’s unwavering dedication to cycling even in his weakened state.
“Despite being weak due to his condition, Abu Samah was only thinking about cycling and work. After three days, it’s all history.
“He was a dedicated person and gave his blood, sweat, and energy to the development of cycling in Malaysia and worldwide for the last 40 years.
“He was well known for his humbleness. He was a great mentor, a great advisor and a fatherly figure to me. He has always been there to guide me.
“His death is a great loss to the cycling community, and he will be dearly missed by all of us in the sports fraternity,” said Amarjit.
Abu Samah’s illustrious career extended beyond Malaysia, serving in various capacities in the Asian Cycling Confederation, including as secretary-general and vice-president for many years.
He also held the position of president of the Asean Cycling Association from 2001 to 2023. – November 28, 2023