Johor, Malaysia: The inaugural Maybank Cycling Series Johor concluded on 14 September 2024, attracting over 2,500 cyclists from 35 countries to the streets of Iskandar Puteri. The event, organized by Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor (MSNJ) and KPRJ Sports Sdn Bhd (KSSB), aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle, environmental sustainability, and community spirit.
The series featured two categories: a challenging 120km road race and a 60km fellowship ride. Participants pedaled through iconic landmarks like Legoland, EnerG X Park, Kukup Golf Resort, and The Museum Bugis coastline path, showcasing Johor’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainable practices.
In a thrilling competition, Mohamad Saari Amri Abd Rasim and Khairunnisa Aleeya Saifulnizam emerged as overall champions in the men’s and women’s races, respectively. Both Johor-born cyclists delighted local fans with their victories. Saari, a member of the Malaysia Pro Cycling Team, secured a solo win with an impressive time of 2:47:37. Khairunnisa, a recent Sukma gold medalist, also dominated the women’s race, finishing ahead of her national teammate Phi Kun Pan.
Beyond the races, the event featured a vibrant festival village with various activities for attendees of all ages, including BMX downhill challenges, pushbike circuit races, live performances, and cultural showcases. The series also incorporated environmental and social initiatives, such as mangrove tree planting and community engagement.
The Maybank Cycling Series Johor was supported by a number of sponsors and partners, including Iskandar Investment Berhad, PIJ Holdings, Johor Corporation, KPJ Healthcare, Global Synergy Sports, Grupetto, Super, Hard Rock Café Puteri Harbour, Trinidad Suites Johor, Trademark Suites by Wyndham, Ramada Suites by Wyndham The Straits Johor Bahru, Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, Meru Utama, Propain, Pro Apparel, Garmin, and more.
Also Read: Young Malaysian Cyclist Zulhelmi Zainal to Lead Indonesian Team at LTdL 2024
One of the highlights of the event was the appearance of local Olympians. National track cycling ace Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom and golfer Kelly Tan added prestige to the occasion. Muar-born Shah Firdaus recently reached the men’s keirin final at the Paris Olympics, while Maybank ambassador Kelly, hailing from Batu Pahat, has represented Malaysia twice at the Olympics – in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Also gracing the event was former SEA Games netball gold medallist, Nur Fariha Abdul Razak who also hails from Johor.
The Maybank Cycling Series Johor was a significant event for the state of Johor. It showcased the region’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, protecting the environment, and fostering community spirit. The event also helped to position Johor as a cycling destination, attracting cyclists from around the world. It not only brought together cycling enthusiasts but also provided a platform for local athletes to showcase their talents.
