Muhammad Muiz Mohd Khairuz Zaiem comes from a family of runners, inspired by his father, Mohd Khairuz Zaiem Mohmood Nor.
Mohd Khairuz Zaiem, a former long-distance runner in school, resumed running during the Covid-19 pandemic after his doctor warned that his health markers were borderline. Little did the 40-year-old CCTV and air-conditioning systems technician realise that his efforts to keep fit would inspire his children to follow in his footsteps.
Today, the eldest son, 15-year-old Muhammad Mursyid, competes at the state level. Muhammad Muiz, 12, captured hearts in Jasin, Melaka, during the Schools Sports Council of Malaysia (MSSM) cross-country meet. Eleven-year-old Muhammad Mustaqim has reached the district finals, while eight-year-old Rania proudly represents her school in local competitions. The youngest, five-year-old Raesa, is already eager to join them.
It is Muhammad Muiz who has been grabbing national attention after overcoming adversity in Jasin last month. Despite a collision with another runner that caused painful cramps and disrupted his pace, he finished the race in 28 minutes.
Last Saturday, Muhammad Muiz and his father travelled from Besut, Terengganu, to Bangi, Selangor, to attend a running clinic organised by Milo for schoolchildren.
Asked about his Jasin experience, Muhammad Muiz told Twentytwo13: “Even though I had cramps, I didn’t want to quit. I was thinking that I’ve already run this far, so I’ll finish my race because I know it’s not easy to qualify for this level.”
Although disappointed at not winning the event, Muhammad Muiz has set his sights on higher goals. He hopes to emulate his elder brother Muhammad Mursyid by becoming a cross-country champion – and eventually donning national colours.
“Besides cross-country, I will also compete in the district trials in sprints and hurdles,” said Muhammad Muiz, who is also the head boy of SK Kampong Raja in Besut and a Scout leader.
The MSSM athletics meet is in Kangar, Perlis, from Aug 17 to 24.
“My dream is to represent Malaysia at the highest level. My idol is (Muhamad) Haziq Hamzah,” he added.
Muhamad Haziq, one of Malaysia’s top marathon runners, is aiming to win a medal at the Thailand SEA Games in December.
Muhammad Muiz knows the road ahead is long but remains grateful for the support and sacrifices made by his father.
“Abah (father) has been my biggest supporter and trainer,” said Muhammad Muiz. “To all young runners – set goals, train consistently and relentlessly. InshaAllah (God willing), success will come. Don’t give up easily.”
Not content with only offering moral support, Mohd Khairuz Zaiem has taken steps to address the coaching gap by enrolling in a certified Level 2 course for mid- and long-distance training. His goal is to pass on the values of discipline, resilience, and perseverance to the next generation of runners in his hometown.
Raising four junior runners comes with its share of expenses – from shoes and nutrition to travel – but Mohd Khairuz Zaiem considers every ringgit spent as an investment in their aspirations. He’s also grateful for the help of friends and the wider community.
“It’s a joyful commitment, but seeing them cross the finish line makes every sacrifice worthwhile,” said Mohd Khairuz Zaiem.
For him, the ultimate reward is watching his children fulfil their potential.
Main image: Muhammad Muiz (third from left) with his family at last month’s MSSM cross-country event.
