Fondly known as Damok, Syarifuddin started at the 10th spot, but completed the 16-lap race in 29 minutes and 32.553 seconds, ahead of Spaniards David Munoz Rodriguez and Jose Antonio Rueda Ruiz, who finished in second and third places respectively.

The maximum 25 points he earned in winning Race 1 in the third round of the championship in Barcelona put him in 10th spot in the championship with a total of 31 points.

The 19-year-old SIC Racing Team rider, however, failed to finish Race 2 when he crashed out with five laps remaining.

The championship is a feeder series for MotoGP.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah and the prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, have congratulated Syarifuddin on his victory.

Sultan Abdullah said: “Syarifuddin’s outstanding achievement once again proves that Malaysia is capable of producing athletes and individuals of quality, calibre and of international standards. It also proves that with commitment, fighting spirit and hard work, Malaysians are able to compete and succeed at the international level.”

He hoped Syarifuddin’s success and fighting spirit will be a source of inspiration to fellow Malaysians, in particular athletes, to work hard and strive for success.

Muhyiddin also expressed his joy and pride.

“Congratulations young man! Congratulations Malaysia!,” he said. “I am so proud and happy when informed that a Malaysian youth, Syarifuddin, has successfully rocked the Catalunya Circuit and emerged victorious at the CEV Moto3 Race yesterday,” he posted on Facebook today.

Muhyiddin said only strong determination, perseverance, willpower and courage can make a rider a winner.

The prime minister also congratulated the entire team for the victory that had made the nation proud.

“Keep striving for more glorious success.

“Congratulations Damok!” he said, ending the post with the hashtag #MalaysiaPastiBoleh.

Youth and sports minister Reezal Merican Naina Merican also congratulated Syarifuddin on his win.