KUCHING: Malaysia’s very own Tun Ameerul Luqman Al-Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam has etched his name in bowling history after clinching the Chameleon Championship on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour on Tuesday – making him the first-ever Malaysian to win a PBA title.
The 26-year-old delivered a stunning performance in the final, defeating Kevin McCune (USA) 269-227 at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno, Nevada.
For Tun Hakim, this victory was the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance.
“It was a dream come true, it was amazing.
“I really didn’t expect to win. I’m just really speechless. I need a few days to put out some words.
“Winning a PBA title has always been a dream, and to finally achieve it is surreal.
“This win is for everyone who has supported me along the way,” he said in a post-match interview.
His victory comes at a time when Malaysian bowling is making waves internationally.
Just weeks earlier, compatriot Muhammad Rafiq Ismail came agonisingly close to a PBA title, finishing runner-up in the Scorpion Championship.
Tun Hakim’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable.
Earlier this year, he helped Malaysia clinch its first-ever IBF World Cup title in Hong Kong.
In 2024, he also secured gold in the men’s doubles at the Asian Bowling Championships in Bangkok alongside Shaqeem Izwan Teh.
His success on the PBA Tour marks a significant milestone – not just for himself, but for Malaysia’s growing reputation in the world of bowling.
Tun Hakim’s rise to prominence has been steady since he made his PBA debut in 2018.
Now, with a championship title under his belt, he has cemented his status as a serious contender on the world stage.
“This was just the beginning, I want to keep pushing, keep improving, and hopefully inspire the next generation of Malaysian bowlers to believe that they too can compete at this level,” he said.
