KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill's rise to the top of international cycling governance has earned further recognition after being conferred The BrandLaureate ICON Leadership Award for Global Leadership in International Sports on Thursday.
The Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president received the award for his contributions to cycling and as the first Malaysian elected vice president of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the sport's world governing body.
Amarjit made history at the 194th UCI Congress in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2025, having previously served two terms on the UCI executive committee since 2017.
The award was presented by Tun Md Raus Sharif, former Chief Justice of Malaysia and patron of The BrandLaureate.
Amarjit dedicated the recognition to those who have contributed to the development of cycling in Malaysia, Asia and beyond.
"I am truly humbled and honoured to receive this recognition. I dedicate this award to everyone who has worked alongside me and contributed to shaping and advancing cycling in Malaysia, across Asia and around the world," said Amarjit.
The Ipoh local is also president of the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC), which represents 45 national federations across the continent, placing him at the helm of cycling's development and governance at both continental and global levels.
Under his leadership, the ACC has worked on governance reforms, accountability and cooperation among member federations, with the aim of raising standards and expanding opportunities for cycling across Asia.
Amarjit's role with MNCF has centred on strengthening Malaysia's position in the sport, particularly in track cycling, where national riders have continued to bring international recognition.
He has also championed efforts to bring major international cycling competitions to Malaysia, providing opportunities for local athletes, officials and the wider cycling community.
Amarjit's involvement in international cycling also continues a family connection, with his father, Tan Sri Darshan Singh Gill, having served on the UCI executive committee from 1996 to 2005.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
