A gold medal at Sepang and an international debut in Sri Lanka – Stella Sigi’s breakthrough is more than a personal triumph. It is proof of Sarawak’s growing presence on the motorsport map.
From first lap to international debut
WHEN 35-year-old Stella Sigi tightened her helmet at Sepang International Circuit in August, she wasn’t just strapping in for her first motorsport race – she was stepping into an entirely new world.
For the Sarawakian newcomer, the Malaysia Festival of Speed (MFOS) marked her debut on the tarmac.
By the end of the weekend, she had not only conquered her nerves but also clinched first place in the women’s category, securing her ticket to represent Malaysia at the Asia Pacific Motorsports Championship in Sri Lanka later this month.
Her triumph wasn’t just personal. It became the highlight of Sarawak’s extraordinary performance at Sepang, where the state’s racers returned home with 16 medals in total – 10 from Speed Chasers Motorsports Club, and another six from fellow Sarawakian drivers.
“It was an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. This achievement is a true testament to the growing talent and dedication within our motorsport community,” recalled Elmyn Michael, leader of Team Sarawak.
A first step fuelled by teamwork
For Stella, every lap at Sepang was the result of months of preparation. She had never competed before, but she found herself under the guidance of veteran racers from both Kuching and Miri.
“Stella’s success is a clear reflection of the effective teamwork that went into this competition.
“She was personally coached by Speed Chasers Motorsports Club president Alan Kon, who guided her through the technical aspects of gymkhana racing.
“At the same time, our experienced Kuching drivers helped sharpen her techniques and refresh our collective skills. This collaboration made a real difference,” Elmyn explained.
Teamwork wasn’t only about skill – it was also about spirit.
Elmyn, described by his peers as the backbone of Team Sarawak, kept the atmosphere light when the stakes felt heavy.
“My team usually describes me as the funny type,” he laughed.
“I like to fool around and cheer people up, because too much pressure doesn’t help. I want them to enjoy the moment, clear their minds, and just focus on the race,” added the seasoned gymkhana racer himself, who also serves as the team’s tactician and mentor.
The turning point on track
The defining moment came when Stella crossed the finish line in her very first race. Against seasoned competitors, her consistency and calm focus carried her to victory.
“The moment we secured 10 medals – gold, silver and bronze – was filled with immense excitement.
“But what made it even more special was seeing Stella, in her debut, come out on top. To watch her emerge victorious was both inspiring and a proud moment for the entire team,” Elmyn said.
For Stella, racing became a test of resilience as much as reflexes. In gymkhana, where drivers weave through cones and obstacles at high speed, even the smallest mistake can cost precious seconds. But she kept her cool.
“The key is to stay focused, be consistent, and not think too much about what other competitors are doing.
“Remember your training, and most importantly, go out there and have fun,” Elmyn noted of the team’s approach.
Beyond Sepang: Sri Lanka awaits
That fun now takes Stella further than she ever imagined. Alongside fellow Sarawakian racer Louis Sia, she has been chosen to represent Malaysia at the Asia Pacific Motorsports Championship 2025 in Sri Lanka, set for September 26 to 28.
“This is a significant achievement not only for our team but for Sarawak as a whole,” Elmyn said proudly.
“Two Sarawakians will be competing on an international stage under the Malaysian flag. For Stella, it’s a stepping stone – her first motorsport event at home has already opened the door to the world,” added the 29-year-old team leader.
Building a motorsport culture in Sarawak
Stella’s breakthrough also shines a light on the broader motorsport movement in Sarawak. Auto gymkhana, a discipline that combines precision driving with agility, is still relatively new in the state. Yet Sarawak has already made history, securing podium finishes in national competitions last year and now producing international qualifiers.
Elmyn sees both promise and challenges in growing this momentum.
“The biggest challenge is finding new drivers, especially young ones. Motorsport isn’t cheap – from flights to accommodation, the costs add up.
“That’s why we do our best to find sponsors and promote their businesses in return. But young people still have the energy, the drive, and the enthusiasm to go far. We just need to nurture that,” he admitted.
What makes Sarawak’s drivers stand out, he believes, is their spirit.
“Everyone I know in Sarawak motorsport is helpful and friendly and always motivates each other to push forward.
“We want to see our friends achieve greater heights, and that culture of support is something special,” Elmyn noted.
Looking ahead
As Stella prepares for her international debut in Sri Lanka later this month, she carries not only her own hopes but also the pride of a community that has rallied behind her.
For Elmyn, her journey embodies the future he envisions for Sarawak’s motorsport scene – one where more young talents step up, take risks, and discover just how far their passion can take them.
“I wish there were more young talents in Sarawak who love motorsport and are willing to go the extra mile.
“Don’t be afraid to approach us – we’ll teach you, guide you, and bring you forward. Stella is proof that with the right spirit and support, you can go from your first race to representing Malaysia on the international stage,” he emphasised.
From the heat of Sepang to the spotlight of Sri Lanka, Stella’s story is still unfolding – but her debut has already made history.
And as Sarawak’s motorsport clubs continue to grow, her victory is proof that with the right spirit and support, even a first-time driver can race her way onto the international stage.
