Malaysia’s Nor “Phoenix” Diana became the world’s first hijab-wearing champion wrestler who broke down barriers for women in a male-dominated sport.
Photo via Facebook Nor "Phoenix" Diana
She once again made Malaysia proud when she made it to Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Asia” list for 2020, in recognition of her contribution to the sport.
Nor Diana grabbed worldwide attention after being the first female to win the Malaysia Pro Wrestling (MYPW) wrestlecon championship in July 2019.
“I want to inspire women not just in hijab but women in general. Nothing can stop us as long as we have the passion and believe in ourselves,” Nor Diana told the Malay Mail.
Forbes announced its fifth annual “30 Under 30 Asia” list featuring 300 young entrepreneurs, leaders and changemakers across Asia, all under the age of 30 years old who are challenging conventional wisdom and rewriting the rules for the next generation.
The list features bright and innovative honorees from 22 countries and territories represented across the Asia-Pacific region, with 30 honorees selected for each of the 10 categories.
Eleven other listees from Malaysia include Zac Liew (co-founder of Curlec); Ooi “Jason” Wei Xiang (founder of Agrain); Lennise Ng and Aizat Rahim (co-founders of Dropee); and Wan Hasifi Amin Wan Zaidon (co-founder of Baituljannah).
Forbes praised 20-year-old Nor Diana as having broken down barriers in her chosen sport, which is wrestling. She believes that she can use her image to challenge stereotypes and break down social walls, and hopes that people will someday recognise her as a wrestler for her talent and not because she wears the hijab.
What an inspiration. Congratulations, Diana!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
