Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to rally behind national Muay Thai athlete Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff Rakib as he prepares to challenge for the ONE Interim Strawweight Muay Thai World Championship this Friday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff's opportunity to make history as the first Malaysian combat sports athlete to qualify for a shot at the world title. In a Facebook post today, Anwar expressed his support and encouragement for the athlete's upcoming challenge.

"Let us all give our full support to Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff Rakib, who will be competing for the ONE Interim Strawweight Muay Thai World Championship this Friday. May you continue to raise Malaysia's name on the world stage and inspire the younger generation to achieve success at the highest level," he said.

Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff is set to face Thai Muay Thai legend Sam-A Gaiyanghadao for the title at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok.