Over 4,000 join Asean Solidarity Cycling Tour 2025
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim stated that the cycling and running event aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and strengthen Asean regional ties.
"This is a testament to how sports serve as a unifying force, not only for Malaysians in general but also for strengthening regional ties under the Asean umbrella," he told reporters after flagging off the participants.
He said Terengganu was chosen as the venue for the programme, held in conjunction with Malaysia's Asean Chairmanship this year, as the state has long dominated cycling events and produced many outstanding athletes in the sport.
Adam Adli said it is a one-off event, but the ministry hoped that similar events could be organised again in the future.
Meanwhile, Cambodian participant Kloth Karaney, 39, said the programme could also promote tourism destinations in Asean countries, particularly Malaysia, as well as nurture good communication and strong relationships among people from Asean member states.
Vietnamese participant Tran Chong Thai, 36, who is visiting Malaysia for the first time, commended the event, adding that he would promote the country's tourism destinations to his friends back home.
"I love this city (Kuala Terengganu). The event is good and the food here is also very nice," he added.
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