Hafizh Syahrin speaks to media during Tea Session with Datuk Razlan Razali at Citta Mall, February 21, 2018. Malaysia will have its first rider in MotoGP history with Tech3 Yamaha locking in Hafizh Syahrin for the 2018 season. — Picture by Azneal Ishak

PETALING JAYA, Feb 21 — Coming from a broken family and living in a workshop in his younger days, battle-hardened Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah knows what it takes to survive in MotoGP.

Mechanic Shafie Harun Abdullah could not afford to rent, let alone buy a house and was forced to live with his two wives and son Hafizh in his workshop.

The tough environment he grew up in motivated Hafizh to come out of poverty.

His natural love for machines and talent as a motorcycle rider helped his cause.

Hafizh began his career aged nine on pocket bikes, eventually earning the nickname “King of Pocket Bikes” and was discovered by Barry Leong.

Having built his career stone by stone, Hafizh has now achieved a dream elusive to many Malaysians — becoming a MotoGP rider.

Not only did Hafizh officially join Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team to race in this season’s premier class, he also became the first Southeast Asian to achieve the feat.

The 23-year-old will replace unwell German rider Jonas Folger and race alongside Johann Zarco for the French outfit.

“I lived with two mothers and my father in his workshop. I’m not ashamed of saying this. We couldn’t afford a house. It didn’t stop me achieving my goals,” said Hafizh after the historic announcement yesterday..

“I hope my struggle will inspire the youngsters. If I can ride in MotoGP, others can too as long as they’re disciplined.”

Hafizh could not believe his luck that it took a day before he informed his family.

He also preached caution in his first MotoGP season where he wants to finish in the top 20.

“I’m still a rookie and will ride against Jorge Lorenzo and Marc Marquez,” he added.

“I can’t wait for the season to start.”

Sepang International Circuit chief executive officer Datuk Razlan Razali expects Hafizh’s promotion to bring in the fans in droves to the Malaysian GP.

“With Hafiz racing at home, we’ll receive tremendous turnout. This is fantastic for Asia,” said Razlan who is also Hafizh’s manager.