Kota Samarahan:Arena Gemilang Rul Azhar, also known as Mohamad Faqhrul Azhar Mohamad Zabandi, emerged victorious in the Bintang P. Ramlee 2026 competition representing the Northern Zone with his rendition of the song "Derita."

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rul Azhar clinched the top prize, receiving RM20,000 in cash, a trophy, and a certificate. The event took place at Arena Gemilang, DeTAR Putra, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), where he bested five other finalists.

The runner-up position was secured by Mahathir Zailani from the Sarawak Zone, earning him RM15,000, along with a trophy and certificate. Jeffryzan Jamil from the Sabah Zone claimed third place, taking home RM10,000, a trophy, and a certificate.

Additionally, Mohd Ridzuan Md Taib from the Southern Zone was awarded for Best Performance, which came with RM2,000, a trophy, and a certificate.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was present to award the winners. The event was also attended by Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, and Ministry of Communications secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah.