Source: New Straits Times.

Tunku Mahkota Johor Tunku Ibrahim Ismail (right) taking a closer look at Jealous Ahura. With him is the team behind the vehicle’s success, including owner T.M. Rawa (second from left).

JOHOR BARU — Although many have yet to see it unwrapped, the fully-customised Mazda RX7, or better known as Jealous Ahura, has managed to lure fans and car enthusiasts from all over the country. But a visit from a royal family member had made all of the blood, sweat and tears spent to work on the car all the more worthwhile for the Ahura team.

The sports car would mark the first Malaysian entry at the famed Meguiar’s Motor EX Show in Sydney, Australia, to be held in July.

Owner T. M Rawa said he was surprised when the Tunku Mahkota of Johor Tunku Ibrahim Ismail came to the team’s garage here to take a look on Jealous Ahura himself.

Describing it as a momentous occasion, Rawa recalled that during the visit which took place early last month, he could see the prince’s eyes glimmering with excitement. «I was humbled by his presence. Despite his busy schedule at the time when Sultan Iskandar’s investiture ceremony was just days away, Tunku Ibrahim made time to see the car and showed his support for us.»

He said the Tunku Mahkota, who is a keen car enthusiast himself, praised the team for their hard work.

«Tunku Ibrahim scanned the car in detail. He saw the bodywork, the paint, the electronics and popped the hood to see the engine. He was smiling all the time.»

Rawa said the Tunku Mahkota was proud to see Johoreans working together to produce such an astounding vehicle.

«His visit gave endorsement to our effort. He even provided pointers on which segment should be improved. Being a well-known, knowledgeable car enthusiast, we took his advice.»

However, due to contest regulations, public display or publishing complete photographs of competing cars before the show is strictly prohibited.

«We have many, including dignitaries wanting to see the car. But only few are allowed due to the regulations.»