More than 6,000 cyclists powered along Kajang-Seremban Highway for a night to remember.
UNDER the glow of LED lights, 6,017 cyclists took on a car-free highway in one of Malaysia’s largest mass-participation events.
The 44.3km of closed Kajang-Seremban Highway (Lekas) saw participants from 23 countries pitting their strength, power and endurance in categories comprising 105km competitive ride, 78km ride, 17km open ride, and 17km and 12km youth rides.
RHB Lekas Highway Ride 2025 offered participants a unique and scenic experience as they raced between Kajang, Selangor, and Paroi in Seremban, Negri Sembilan.
Now in its 10th edition, the ride had evolved from a bold idea into a leading Malaysian cycling event, according to a media statement by title sponsor RHB Banking Group.
Since its 2013 debut, it has also achieved many milestones including two Malaysia Book of Records entries in 2024 for the “Longest Distance on a Closed Highway” (105km) and “Largest Participation in a Highway Night Cycling Event”.
The event continued to attract participants from abroad while fostering community spirit and a healthy lifestyle, the statement added.
The 10th edition was a collaboration between RHB Banking Group and Lebuhraya Kajang Seremban Sdn Bhd – a subsidiary of IJM Corporation Bhd’s toll division.
It was flagged off by Malaysia Highway Authority (LLM) director-general Datuk Sazali Harun at the Kajang Selatan Toll Plaza.
“This 10th edition is especially meaningful for us at RHB as it also marks our eighth year as title sponsor,” said RHB Banking Group managing director and group chief executive officer Datuk Rashid Mohamad.
“Over the years, it has grown into more than just a cycling race – it’s about connecting communities, inspiring healthier lifestyles and creating experiences that endure.
“We are honoured to be part of this journey and look forward to continuing our partnership with Lekas, bringing together the cycling community of all ages and backgrounds from every corner of the region,” he added.
IJM Corporation Bhd group chief executive officer and managing director Datuk Lee Chun Fai said: “What began as a unique idea to open our highway for cycling, has grown into a meaningful tradition that unites riders from all walks of life.
“It reflects our belief that highways can be more than just routes of travel – they can be spaces that connect people and inspire healthier, more active communities.
“As we continue to open our expressways for community events, we remain committed to safety, innovation and meaningful engagements that bring people closer to the infrastructure we build.”
To commemorate the 10-year milestone, a carnival enlivened the start and finish zones with cultural performances, gourmet food trucks, lucky draws and activities for families to enjoy.
The evening reached its crescendo with a performance by Malaysia’s rock legend Ella.
National Heart Institute (IJN) returned as the official medical partner with on-site support and deployment of the RHB-IJN mobile health clinic.
The 12m-long mobile clinic is equipped with diagnostic facilities, health screening equipment and wellness outreach capabilities. It is used by RHB and IJN to bring preventive healthcare to underserved communities nationwide.
Other event partners included Works Ministry, LLM and the police.
In the 105km race, the Men’s Open category was won by Muhammad Khairul Azizi Abdullah, with Dagreat Izzura taking the women’s title.
Poon Choon Kiat won the Men’s Veteran category while Team HoneyB-BikeBaju took the Corporate Open team title.
In the 78km race, Mohd Hafiz Rozli clinched first place in the Men’s Open, while Ong Siew Kei topped the Women’s Open.
The Men’s Veteran champion was CW Mohd Aidil Azrol CW Mansor, while Mariana Mohammad won the Women’s Veteran category.
In the young adults category, Adam Zharfan Fenner Ambrose was the top male finisher, while Crystal Na Yuan Ling was his female counterpart.
