By Rafiqah Rauf
KLANG, Nov 10 — The Klang Royal City Marathon 2025 was not just a sports event, but one that brought together the community’s different races while championing the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Participants of the marathon hailed the event as joyful and inclusive, as it embraced people from all walks of life and all layers of society, including the disabled (OKU) and children.
Jeggathesan Ramasundran, 47, said the overwhelming response from people of different ages indicate that there is now better awareness on healthy living.
"Because there were many categories, everyone, including disabled people and children, could join.
"I've participated in many runs, but this is among the best. If possible, I'd want such marathons every year, or even better, every three months," he said.
Another participant, Norfarahdatul Aida, 36, agreed, saying such events should be held every year as they bring the community closer, and carry an important message about healthy choices.
"The location was also strategic, and the atmosphere was so calm and conducive. We were thrilled to be a part of it," she said.
Norfarahdatul added that she was excited to see the mayor of Klang Royal City, Dato' Abd Hamid Hussain, taking part, and that this was important in bridging ties with the people.
She congratulated the organisers, saying that it was the most well-organised and fun marathon she has participated.
For Henry Lim, 47, the run was proof that the city is committed in promoting good health and inclusivity.
"I arrived as early as 6 am for the 5km run. At that early hour the car park was already full — imagine the number of people participating! And so I had to walk 1.5 km from where I parked to the venue. That was my warm-up for the event," he joked.
Lim was as thrilled as Norfarahdatul to see the mayor running, and also asked that the marathon be held annually.
In terms of inclusivity, it was the 3 km funwalk category that made it possible for many disableds and children to join.
Mayor Abd Hamid said he was happy and touched to meet with disabled participants who came as far as Kuala Lumpur.
"Their presence is significant; it shows they want to be a part of active society.
"This sort of programmes allow everyone irrespective of ability to join in," he added.
Abd Hamid said he too, wishes for more such events to take place, and thanked the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) for allowing the use of the West Coast Expressway.
He added that overall, some 5,000 people participated in the run that featured 5 km, 10 km, 21 km and 42 km categories, and a 3 km funwalk.
