Former national rhythmic gymnast Dr Farrah-Hani Imran has set a new record by becoming the first nasional athlete to achieve the rank of Associate Professor in the medical field.

According to a report by Bernama, Dr Farrah received the recognition on 22 May.

"Humbling as the first former national athlete to make it as a surgical Profesor Madya (Assoc Prof), and the first national gymnast to be a Profesor Madya in any field. It is a real-life proof that sports is crucial in building character and creating multitasking all-around individuals who are an asset to the workplace."

"My biggest constant motivators are my family -- mother, sister Amy Imran, brother Dr Amar Imran and husband Dr Enda Kelly," she said.

A true all rounder

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Dr Farrah was the first Malaysian gymnast to compete at the 1993 World Championships in Alicante, Spain and was also the manager for the National Rhythmic Gymnastics Team at the 2017 SEA Games.

She is currently the head of Plastic Surgery, Burn Unit and Wound Care Team at University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre.

"Sports teaches you how to be a champion but, more importantly, it teaches you how to handle defeat with class and grace, including knowing when to take a step back to let others shine, appreciating that it is not always about you," she said.