MIRI: A 35-year-old automotive enthusiast from Kuching, Nik Abdul Hafiz Ahmad, has taken the top honour at the Borneo Diesel Meetup 2026, emerging as the event’s Best of the Best winner.
His victory came as the gathering brought together diesel vehicle owners, car clubs and automotive enthusiasts from across the region, highlighting the growing interest in automotive culture and community-building in Borneo.
Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang, who attended the event, said gatherings such as the meetup were important in bringing enthusiasts together to exchange knowledge, share ideas and build lasting connections.
He commended the organising committee, sponsors, exhibitors, car clubs, volunteers and participants for their contribution to the event’s success.
Yii said the meetup was about more than an impressive display of diesel vehicles and modified cars, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen the automotive community while encouraging greater participation among young people.
He also pointed to the changing landscape of the automotive industry, particularly advances in technology, improved vehicle efficiency and the shift towards cleaner and more sustainable mobility.
He said events such as the meetup could inspire younger people to turn their interest in motoring into future careers and opportunities within the automotive sector.
The event also drew participants who travelled from near and far, reinforcing its role as a platform for automotive enthusiasts to connect beyond their respective car clubs and communities.
Yii urged the organisers to build on the success of this year’s gathering and make future editions bigger and better.
He also reminded participants to practise responsible motoring and prioritise road safety when travelling home.
For Nik Abdul Hafiz, however, the evening ended on a personal high note as he walked away with the Best of the Best title, securing the top recognition at a gathering that celebrated not only vehicles, but the people and passion driving Borneo’s automotive community.
