MULTAN: Pakistan’s first Saraiki woman off-road driver, Alia Malik, recently appeared on a popular Saraiki-language podcast, where she shared her inspiring journey from a motorsport enthusiast to a national-level off-road rally champion.
In the exclusive podcast episode, Alia Malik discussed the challenges she faced in breaking gender barriers within a male-dominated sport and highlighted the pride she feels in representing the Saraiki belt on national platforms.
Speaking about her experience, Alia said that her participation in off-road rallies, where she secured second position — was both a personal and cultural milestone. “I wanted to show that Saraiki women are strong, skilled, and fearless. Our region has immense potential, and we only need opportunities to prove ourselves,” she remarked.
During the podcast, she reflected on her early struggles in training, vehicle preparation, and gaining recognition in motorsports. She emphasized the importance of community support and family encouragement, crediting her success to perseverance and faith.
The episode also focused on Alia’s initiative, “Saraiki Women on Wheels,” aimed at empowering young women through driving education, vehicle maintenance skills, and desert navigation training. She revealed plans to expand the project across South Punjab to help women gain mobility and confidence.
Listeners praised Alia Malik’s humility, courage, and commitment to social change, describing her as a new role model for the Saraiki youth. The podcast quickly gained traction on social media, sparking conversations about representation, regional identity, and women’s empowerment.
Hailing from Dera Ismail Khan, Alia’s journey from a small-town enthusiast to a recognized off-road driver reflects courage, determination, and passion for adventure sports — a field long dominated by men. Her entry into professional off-road racing marks not just a personal milestone but also a cultural breakthrough for the Saraiki belt, where women’s participation in motorsports has been almost nonexistent.
Alia Malik’s passion for driving began during her university days, where she often took part in motorbike and jeep trials organized by local adventure clubs. Encouraged by her family and mentors, she underwent technical training in vehicle handling, rally navigation, and terrain control — skills essential for off-road racing.