Dr. Hadafi Fitri Mohd Latip will proudly represent Malaysia for the second time at the prestigious World Holistic Massage Championship Competition 2025 in Singapore. As a highly respected massage therapist in Malaysia, he has dedicated his professional journey to advancing the standards of holistic wellness and therapeutic massage, combining traditional wisdom with modern techniques to promote health and well-being.
With years of experience in the wellness and therapy field, Dr. Hadafi has built a reputation for his expertise, dedication, and compassionate approach to healing. His commitment goes beyond providing treatments—he actively contributes to the recognition of massage therapy as an essential part of holistic healthcare.
His second appearance on the world stage not only highlights his personal growth and determination but also reflects Malaysia’s growing presence in the global wellness industry. By competing among top international practitioners, Dr. Hadafi aims to showcase Malaysia’s unique therapeutic traditions, inspire his peers, and continue elevating the professional image of massage therapy worldwide.
As he prepares to step once again into this global arena, Dr. Hadafi Fitri Mohd Latip embodies passion, resilience, and national pride representing Malaysia with honor, skill, and a vision of holistic healing for all.
Hadafi Fitri Mohd Latip, born in Ipoh, Perak, is a proud Malaysian who continues to make remarkable contributions in the fields of sports science, health, and holistic therapy. At 42 years old, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, both as an academic and as a practitioner, inspiring many along his journey.
An alumnus of the Sports Science and Health Science program at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Hadafi began his academic career in 2011 as a tutor at the School of Biosciences and Medical Engineering (SKBSK) before rising to the position of lecturer in Sports Science at UTM. His dedication to education has shaped the learning paths of countless students, blending theory with practical applications in sports and health.
Beyond his role as a lecturer, Hadafi has served the UTM community in many capacities. He was an Assistant Fellow at Kolej Rahman Putra (KRP) and later a Fellow at Kolej Tun Dr. Ismail (KTDI), where he worked closely with students and helped nurture future leaders. He also actively advised numerous student associations, including the UTM Sports Science, Innovation and Technology Club, the UTM E-Sports Club, and the Secretariat of Perak Students (Semarak UTM).
His leadership extended to safety and welfare as well. As a Health and Safety Officer at SKBSK and Incident Commander, Hadafi ensured the V01 building remained safe and compliant. His quick thinking and composure were tested during a real fire incident, where he successfully executed emergency procedures, safeguarding lives and property.
His visionary leadership was also evident during his tenure as the Director of the UTM Sports Innovation and Technology Centre (SITC). Under his guidance, the centre achieved notable milestones, including its recognition as an ISN-UTM Satellite Centre, the prestigious National Sports Technology Innovation Award (international level), and several leadership awards in sports. These achievements positioned SITC as a key driver of innovation in Malaysian sports development.
Inspired by his mentors, Prof. Dr. Hafidz and Prof. Dr. Anizu, Hadafi dreams of seeing Sports Science and Health Science at UTM flourish into a major academic discipline with its own dedicated faculty. His personal motto, “With wisdom, we explore and rise without bringing anyone down,” reflects his character as a leader who uplifts others while striving for excellence.
Today, Dr. Hadafi Fitri Mohd Latip is actively engaged in sports therapy and rehabilitation at the state, national, and international levels. His expertise has not only benefited athletes but also contributed to raising Malaysia’s profile in the wellness and health sciences sector. Along the way, he has received numerous awards and recognitions, both in sports competitions and in sports media.
Balancing his responsibilities as a lecturer, mentor, and therapist, he continues to inspire his students, colleagues, and the wider community. With integrity, wisdom, and dedication, Dr. Hadafi stands as a role model in Malaysia’s pursuit of holistic wellness and academic excellence.