Johorean turns brother-in-law’s bike into prizewinning tribute

Johorean turns brother-in-law’s bike into prizewinning tribute

Wahyu Hidayat Japar's pledge to maintain the late Muhammad Ridzuan Abd Kadir's vehicle has led to his good fortune in bike shows.

bike
Wahyu Hidayat Japar and his wife Rozieana Abd Kadir with the Yamaha 135LC once owned by his late brother-in-law, Muhammad Ridzuan Abd Kadir. (Bernama pic)
BATU PAHAT:
Wahyu Hidayat Japar’s plan to sell the motorcycle left behind by Muhammad Ridzuan Abd Kadir was abandoned when he recalled his late brother-in-law’s final request – to take good care of the vehicle.

The Yamaha 135LC motorcycle had been involved in a 2015 accident that claimed the life of Ridzuan, then 24 years old. Fulfilling his brother-in-law’s wish, Wahyu, 43, decided to keep and maintain the vehicle.

Speaking with Bernama, Wahyu said he gradually upgraded the motorcycle with various accessories to ensure it remained in good condition.

“Ridzuan and I were very close; our bond was like that of real brothers. We shared the same passion, especially when it came to motorcycles.

“I regularly repair and accessorise this bike so it always looks new and well-kept,” he said at the Tongkang Pechah Bikeshow 2025 gathering in Taman Bistari here recently.

Wahyu said participating in motorcycle competitions had not initially crossed his mind, as his only goal had been to keep Ridzuan’s vehicle in good condition.

awards
Wahyu (third right) and members of the Petronas Santai Moto Tongkang Pechah group with trophies won at a recent bike show in Taman Bistari, Batu Pahat. (Bernama pic)

However, after changing to a new “cover set” with the Petronas logo last year, the motorcycle began attracting attention thanks to its more exclusive appearance.

“So, I decided to enter a competition and, to my surprise, won first place. Since then, this bike has brought me nothing but good fortune.

“Many motorcycle enthusiasts now come to take photos with it, and some even ask for my advice on customising their own bikes,” said Wahyu, who has spent more than RM4,000 on upgrades.

Wahyu is also the founder of the Petronas Santai Moto Tongkang Pechah group, comprising over 20 Yamaha motorcycle owners from the area.

“If Ridzuan were still here, I’m sure he’d be proud of how far this has come,” he added.

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