AirAsia continues to support the nation's finest talents through the signing of young Malaysian bodybuilder, Faiz Ariffin, 24, in his bid to conquer the World and Asian championships in 2017.

What started off as an observation of his body development triggered Faiz's passion for bodybuilding at a tender age of 18. He started competing in 2013 and was soon ranked Top 10 in the world and in Asia through his hard work and willpower.

The athlete debuted in the coveted World Bodybuilding and Physique Championship in 2015 and placed 7th overall in the Men's Athletic Physique. He retained his world ranking last year with bigger plans to dominate the scene representing Malaysia.

Aside from his solid performance in the world arena, he has achieved several notable accomplishments including the 50th Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (4th for the Men's Athletic Physique); 12th South East Asian Bodybuilding Championships (2nd for the Men's Open Athletic Physique above 170cm); and 48th Asian Bodybuilding Fitness and Physique Sports Championship among others.

Rudy Khaw, Regional Head of Branding said, "Faiz is one of the upcoming athletes we are excited to support as he truly embodies the values of AirAsia - to work hard and stay humble in his game. What also really appealed to us is his self-made journey in which he taught himself the different aspects of bodybuilding to be where he is today. It is all about that drive, passion and determination which is very much in line with AirAsia when we started out 15 years ago."

"We are happy to be a part of Faiz's dreams as this initiative remains part of our on-going commitment to empower home-grown talents and give them a platform to shine on the global stage."

Faiz Ariffin said, "I am very grateful to have the support and sponsorship from AirAsia in my pursuit to be the next world champion. One of my plans is to also inspire Malaysian youth to be active and fit through my own journey. I look forward to embark on this journey together with AirAsia in creating a healthy lifestyle for all within my professional competency."

In 2017, Faiz will focus on the Asian and World championships aiming for the number one spot and to become the youngest athlete to win the title for Malaysia in both competitions.

AirAsia will work closely with the bodybuilder to achieve his goals along with several upcoming initiatives as well including fitness clinics with AirAsia Allstars in its Kuala Lumpur headquarters, RedQ.