Sibu musclewoman bags second successive title, seeks sponsorship
SIBU: Musclewoman Moreen Bangka adds another feather to her cap when she clinched the International Federation Body Building (IFBB)-National Physique Committee (NPC) Thailand Muscle Regional wellness category in Avani Sukhumvit, Bangkok last weekend.
Still riding high on her win in the same event in Singapore last August, Sibu-born Moreen said the achievement was beyond her expectation.
“Yes, this will surely add fuel to my pursuit to attain bigger titles in bodybuilding and to win more glory for the country,” she added when contacted.
Bodybuilders from seven countries, including Indonesia, India, Taiwan and Philippines took part in the contest.
The 31-year-old burst into the limelight after her victory in Singapore.
It was the first time Moreen tasted success in the IFBB-NPC Championship after numerous attempts. She took part in the same event in Bangkok in March but came in second.
This time around, Moreen made amends – with her poise and posture – and returned with the elusive title.
“I was so happy with the results and will continue to work and aim for more,” she said.
Standing at 151cm, Moreen is believed to be the first woman in the country to join the IFBBNPC championship wellness category which is for amateur bodybuilders.
However, her dream of joining the IFBB Pro League Orchid Pro Bikini Wellness and Mr Olympia will have to wait after she failed to obtain the professional qualification (Procard) from the IFBB–NPC.
The professional league promises huge rewards and lucrative prizes, whereas amateur competitions did not offer prize money but only a medal and a certificate.
“Of course, it will be good if I can win some cash prizes to cover my own expenses for the trips which are costly.
“I do hope to get some sponsors to ease my financial burden so that I can concentrate full-time on what I am doing. Qualifying for the IFBB League and Mr Olympia remains the ultimate dream of all the musclemen and women,” she added.
A late starter, Moreen’s interest in bodybuilding started in 2015 after undergoing work-out sessions at weightlifting centres.
Morren currently trains at Iron Man Gym under the guidance of former Mr Malaysia Fong Hui Kong, who accompanied her in the trip to Thailand.
Fong believes Moreen has a bright future in the sport.
“She is committed and passionate about the sport and combined with her hardwork and inborn talent, I believe she has the potential to reap greater rewards,” he said.
Moreen said she would be taking a two-month rest before deciding on her next event.
“There are so many international bodybuilding events to choose from and it all boils down to my own financial capabilities.
“Hopefully, somebody out there will be willing to be my sponsor.”