Malaysian racing driver Ng Aik Sha, fondly known as Akisha, has etched her name in history with an astounding performance at the Taipei International Gymkhana Prize (TIGP), marking her ascent as a formidable presence in the global motorsport scene. Akisha’s groundbreaking victory as the first woman to conquer the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship (AAGC) not only showcased her unparalleled skill but also underscored her unwavering determination. Adding to her accolades, she secured the title of the third woman in the Taiwan International Grand Prize, further solidifying her elite status in the sport.
Teaming up with Amaresh Malakar Choudhury, Akisha displayed exceptional synergy on the track, clinching first place in both the Mixed Doubles Category of the AAGC and the TIGP, a testament to their remarkable teamwork. Moreover, Team Malaysia emerged as the overall champion in the AAGC, underscoring the nation’s prowess in motorsport.
Reflecting on the significance of the TIGP in their journey towards future competitions, team manager Jagjeet Singh emphasized its strategic importance in honing Team Malaysia’s skills and coordination for the upcoming FIA World Motorsport Games in October 2024.
For Akisha, competing in the Taipei International Gymkhana Prize and Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship presented exhilarating yet challenging experiences. Adapting to driving on the left-hand side, in accordance with Taipei’s traffic rules, added an extra layer of complexity to the intense competition. However, overcoming these challenges only heightened the satisfaction of achieving success on the global stage.
Since its inception in 2019, the TIGP has evolved into a premier international auto gymkhana competition, attracting 16 ASN international teams. This year’s edition promises to maintain the excitement, featuring renowned teams from Germany, Slovakia, and Indonesia. The TIGP aims to provide a level playing field for the world’s best gymkhana drivers, ensuring fairness and inclusivity for all participants.
Akisha’s triumph not only underscores her exceptional talent and dedication but also her trailblazing role as a female motorsport athlete in Malaysia, shattering gender stereotypes and inspiring young women across the nation.
Motorsport enthusiasts urge YB Puan Hannah Yeoh, the Minister of Youth and Sports, to champion gymkhana motorsport and advocate for increased support and equal opportunities for motorsport drivers in Malaysia. This advocacy extends beyond mere recognition, emphasizing the need for investment in infrastructure, such as proper racing circuits, training facilities, and safety measures, to ensure participant safety. Furthermore, gymkhana stands out as an affordable, accessible, versatile, challenging, and safe sport, making it an ideal avenue for nurturing talent and fostering a vibrant motorsport community in Malaysia.
In addition to infrastructure development, there’s a pressing need for educational initiatives and partnerships with academic institutions to promote motorsport as a viable career path and facilitate skill development within the industry. By fostering this supportive environment and investing in requisite resources, Malaysia can position itself as a hub for motorsport excellence, attracting enthusiasts and stimulating economic growth in the sector.
Akisha and Team Malaysia are gearing up to represent the nation at the upcoming FIA Motorsport Games from October 23 to 27, 2024, in Spain, further solidifying Malaysia’s position on the global motorsport stage. 
