The stage is set, and Mohamad Danial Syahmi Ahmad Shahril is all smiles as he gears up for Round 2 of the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. Representing UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM, the young Malaysian is back on familiar ground and ready to turn lessons into results.
Round 1 may not have delivered the points haul he hoped for, but it gave Danial valuable insight into the season’s pace and plenty of fire to push harder in PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
“Preparation has been intense and very focused. After Round 1, we dove deep into the data and identified a few key areas where we could improve, especially the bike setup. The team has been fantastic in getting everything dialed in. On my side, I’ve been putting in the hours both physically and mentally. It’s about sharpening every detail, and now we’re coming into Sepang with confidence, direction, and a strong fighting spirit. The atmosphere at home always gives me that extra boost.”
Round 1 was a wake up call to the high level of competition across the grid. But it also revealed where the team can improve and gain ground.
“It was a strong reminder of how fierce the competition is. Everyone brought their best, and it set a solid benchmark for us. We saw where we stood and where we needed to improve. It’s exactly the kind of push you want at the start of the season. It lit a fire in me and showed that we’re in for an incredible year.”
Now comes PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, a place Danial knows inside and out. The circuit’s unique mix of flowing corners and high speed straights always makes for thrilling racing, and Danial is keen to make the most of every lap.
“Sepang is such a special place. It’s fast, technical, and really challenges every aspect of a rider’s skillset. For me, it’s a track I’ve grown up on, so there’s a sense of confidence and comfort riding here. The home crowd, the energy, it’s electric. I always feel like I’m riding with something extra here.”
Despite the stacked competition, Danial’s focus is locked in on his own performance race by race, lap by lap. “There are definitely some big names out there with a lot of speed and experience. But I’ve learned not to get too caught up in others. I’m focusing on running my own race. It’s about being smart, staying consistent, and attacking at the right moment. Execution will be everything.”
Danial’s strengths lie in his ability to adapt and remain composed even when the pressure’s on. “My adaptability and calmness under pressure really help. Whether it’s tire wear, sudden rain, or intense battles on track, I’m able to think clearly and make good decisions. I also have a great team behind me. We communicate so well, and that connection makes a huge difference.”
As he prepares to race on home soil, Danial hopes to use every bit of track knowledge and crowd energy to climb the standings.
“Racing in Malaysia always fuels my drive. I know this circuit like the back of my hand whether it’s the lines, the grip levels, and how the track evolves during the day. My strength here is being consistent over full race distance. The goal? Honestly, I’m aiming for the podium. And if the moment comes to go for the win, I’ll give it everything.”
For Danial, 2025 isn’t just about the results. It’s about the journey, the learning, and making every weekend count. “Consistency is key this year. Finishing strong in every race and banking points. But I also want to grow technically, especially in race strategy and giving better feedback to the team. Beyond that, I want to be someone the team can rely on, both on and off the bike. This is a long season, and I’m here for the whole journey.”