(Back row, from fifth left) Lee, Wan Salwani and Wang with representatives of sponsors for the IJM Allianz Duo Highway Challenge 2025. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star
THE IJM Allianz Duo Highway Challenge, touted as Malaysia’s only full highway marathon, will return for its seventh edition on Aug 3.
The marathon will take place on parts of the New Pantai Expressway (NPE) and Sungai Besi Highway (Besraya).
Over 12,000 participants are expected to join the event with four running categories, ranging from 5km to 42km.
This year’s “Highway Legend” theme aims to celebrate everyday athletes who train without seeking recognition.
Allianz Malaysia chief executive officer Sean Wang, representing the event’s co-title sponsor, said the event was gaining more global recognition.
“Our partnership with IJM reflects a shared commitment to health and sustainability, mirroring our global support for the Olympics and Paralympics through 2032.
“The IJM Allianz Duo Highway Challenge has earned two Malaysia Book of Records titles. It is the first full marathon held on a highway and the longest marathon course on a closed highway.
“The 2025 edition has secured certification from World Athletics, an international governing body for athletics.
“It is also recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races,” said Wang during a press conference on the event at IJM Land Centre of Excellence Gallery in Pantai Sentral Park, Kuala Lumpur.
IJM Corp Group chief executive officer Datuk Lee Chun Fai said the recognitions affirm that the marathon meets international standards for distance accuracy and race organisation.
“IJM’s objectives go beyond constructing roads. That is why we build platforms to bring people together, to connect and challenge themselves.
“More importantly, the fully closed highway marathon experience remains uniquely ours. This is not just about speed but about community, perseverance and leaving a positive legacy.”
The Works Ministry besides the police, and Malaysian Highway Authority will oversee road closures and traffic diversions to ensure public safety.
IJM toll division chief executive officer Wan Salwani Wan Yusoff said a lot of behind-the-scenes efforts were required to execute the event.
“We need a lot of people and resources even for a one-day marathon. But we have gained sufficient experience after having this event for several years,” she said.
Event organiser EC Pixels Asia managing director Eugene Chan, said new features this year included public recruitment for pacers and entertainment zones with live music to encourage participants along the route.
“We have launched a pacer search and the public can register with us.
“Every station along the run will offer isotonic drinks.
“The highway run can be quite tough, so we have added entertainment stations to help runners enjoy the journey.
“There will be a live DJ station at one of the stations,” said Chan.
Registration for the run closes on June 30. For details, visit www.ijmhighwayrun.com
