MALAYSIAN shooting lost one of its most popular figures following the demise of former national shooter Muslifah Zulkifli yesterday.
The rifle specialist succumbed to lung inflammation — a complication she suffered following a protracted fight against Covid-19 — at a hospital in Penang yesterday. She was 36.
Muslifah, who was about six months pregnant at the time, contracted Covid-19 in late September.
Muslifah's employer, the Royal Malaysian Navy, handled the funeral arrangements in Penang.
Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu expressed his condolences in a statement released yesterday.
"I would like to express my condolences to the family of Muslifah Zulkifli, who passed away early this morning (yesterday)," said Faizal
"The late Muslifah had contributed a bronze medal for Malaysia at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games."
Muslifah had teamed up with Nur Suryani Taibi and Nur Ayuni Farhana Abdul Halim to win the 50m rifle prone bronze at the 2014 Asiad.
She was equally adept at the 50m three positions discipline as well as the 10m air rifle, and had won multiple Sea Games medals.
Muslifah was a fierce competitor when armed, but was also known as one of the most friendly, humble and caring personalities that was well loved by the Malaysian shooting fraternity.