SHAH ALAM, June 9 — The Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) has renewed its sponsorship agreement with world No. 1 tower runner Soh Wai Ching for another year, reaffirming its support for the athlete’s international pursuits.
Petaling Jaya Mayor Dato' Mohamad Zahri Samingon said that under the agreement, which runs until December 31 this year, the council will provide RM75,000 to support his participation in tower-running competitions worldwide and to help Soh maintain his position at the top of the global rankings.
"The sponsorship also outlines several responsibilities for Soh, including wearing official MBPJ-branded attire during competitions and media engagements both locally and abroad.
"As MBPJ’s official ambassador, he will also promote the council’s initiatives and programmes through various communication platforms while giving priority to activities related to the sponsorship," he told the media during the sponsorship signing ceremony today.
The sponsorship renewal continues a partnership that has seen MBPJ support Soh's rise as one of the world's most successful tower runners. Over the years, the collaboration has enabled the athlete to compete on the international stage and has helped raise Petaling Jaya's profile through his achievements abroad.
Soh's success has brought significant recognition to both Malaysia and Petaling Jaya, with the world champion winning 32 titles across 14 countries in 2025 alone.
MBPJ has also increasingly positioned him as an ambassador for the city, leveraging his international presence to promote Petaling Jaya while encouraging greater participation in tower running among the younger generation.
On his part, Soh said he is committed to supporting MBPJ’s community outreach efforts, particularly programmes involving students and young people.
“I will do whatever I can; I look forward to visiting schools and participating in activities arranged by MBPJ. Whenever I am available, I will be there,” he said.
Soh added that he is eager to join Zahri in school visits and roadshows aimed at inspiring the younger generation, and hopes to contribute further achievements and records for the city through future competitions and events.
Meanwhile, he revealed that he would be flying to Tokyo, Japan, soon to compete in a tower-running competition at the Tokyo Tower.
Soh remains motivated to continue pursuing success internationally despite personal challenges, including caring for his father, whom he described as a role model who taught him the importance of integrity and keeping promises.
“I learned a lot from him. I will continue doing my best and keep moving forward,” he said.
Soh also thanked MBPJ for its continued confidence in him, pledging to ensure the partnership delivers positive results for both parties.
