Kenyan Sweep in Men’s Open
John Nzau Mwangangi finally clinched the Full Marathon Men’s Open title after two near misses, crossing the finish line in 02:17:28. The Kenyan athlete earned the US$15,000 (RM63,225) prize purse, with compatriots Kiprotich Kiru (02:17:45) and defending champion Vincent Kiprono (02:18:06) rounding off the podium.
“I missed out on first place twice because of my lack of experience with the final kilometre. This time I changed my strategy, pushed harder, and it worked,” said Mwangangi, who trained on the hilly roads of Machakos, Kenya, to adapt to Kuala Lumpur’s challenging course.
Women’s Open Triumph for Chepchirchir
Kenya also dominated the women’s race, with Truphena Chepchirchir claiming victory in 02:41:36. Ethiopia’s Almaz Negede Fekade (02:41:50) and Kenya’s Joyline Chemutai (02:42:34) followed closely behind. Chepchirchir, also finishing second in past editions, was thrilled to finally take the crown.
“I expected the hills, heat and humidity, so I trained under the midday sun in Eldoret. That preparation paid off,” she said.
Malaysians Shine in National Categories
The battle for the Malaysian Men’s title was one of the most anticipated showdowns. Yeow Ni Jia, 25, surged ahead in the final kilometres to finish in 02:36:13, ahead of national record holder Tan Huong Leong (02:37:05) and six-time champion Muhaizar Mohamad (02:44:37).
The battle for the Malaysian Men’s title was one of the most anticipated showdowns. Yeow Ni Jia, 25, surged ahead in the final kilometres to finish in 02:36:13, ahead of national record holder Tan Huong Leong (02:37:05) and six-time champion Muhaizar Mohamad (02:44:37).
“The course was tough, but I am proud to achieve my goal of finishing under 02:40 in local conditions,” said Yeow, who also hopes to represent Malaysia at the upcoming SEA Games.
In the Malaysian Women’s category, Chua Khit Yeng reclaimed her crown with a time of 03:05:40, followed by Noor Amelia Musa (03:09:03) and Lee Siok Chin (03:11:07). “I came to fight the clock, not to win. The victory was a nice surprise,” said Chua.
A Celebration of Running and Community
The day began with Tan Sri Shahril Ridzuan, Chairman of Standard Chartered Malaysia, flagging off the Full Marathon at Jalan Raja Laut. The ASICS Half Marathon was flagged off by Boon Tib Soom Nik, Country Manager of ASICS Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Low Sin Ting, Associate Director, Marketing of ASICS Pte Ltd.
In total, 25,200 runners filled the streets of Kuala Lumpur on Day 2, passing iconic landmarks before finishing at the historic Stadium Merdeka. This year’s edition marked a record 42,000 participants, including 3,300 international runners from 53 countries, making KLSCM 2025 the largest in its 17-year history.
As Malaysia’s only World Athletics Elite Label Race, KLSCM 2025 continues to elevate its global standing. “This is a much sought-after race that runners look forward to every year,” said Rainer Biemans, Project Director of KLSCM.
More Than Just a Race
Beyond the competition, KLSCM 2025 also championed causes through the Run For A Reason (RFAR) initiative, raising funds for Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, Hospis Malaysia, Kechara Soup Kitchen and Teach for Malaysia. Donations remain open until 14 October 2025.
Standard Chartered Malaysia, marking its 150th year in Malaysia, highlighted its ASEAN spirit through the EKIDEN Heroes challenge, where regional colleagues ran in relay to symbolise unity and collaboration.
“KLSCM is not just a race but a celebration of people coming together with passion, perseverance, and purpose,” said Mak Joon Nien, CEO of Standard Chartered Malaysia.
Looking Ahead
With a new course, a record turnout, and prestigious international recognition, KLSCM 2025 has reinforced its reputation as Malaysia’s premier distance running event. For thousands of runners, it was more than a race—it was a journey of resilience, community, and triumph.
Next year’s race is already on the horizon—will you be on the start line?
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