KUALA LUMPUR: Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang will be among those stepping up to a new personal challenge at the SCORE Marathon 2026 by AIA Vitality, as national long-distance runner K. Prabudass prepares to renew his rivalry with Singapore’s Soh Rui Yong.
Having completed a 10km race last year, Lih Kang is set to take on his first half marathon, joining a growing trend among Malaysians embracing running as part of a healthier lifestyle.
At the same time, the race is shaping up to deliver a competitive edge, with Prabudass eager to test himself against two-time SEA Games marathon gold medallist Rui Yong in a battle between the national record holders of Malaysia and Singapore.
The 36-year-old Prabudass, who is from Negri Sembilan, is the current national half marathon record holder, having broken the mark three times and setting a best of 1:06.53.
Rui Yong’s national mark is marginally faster at 1:06:45.
Prabudass is working his way back to peak form after recovering from a hip injury suffered six months ago and is relishing the opportunity to test himself against Rui Yong in what could shape up as a compelling contest.
“I had beaten him in a race before and I hope to do it again. Although I am 36, I feel I can continue running in races for another few more years,” said Prabudass, who also won the 5,000m silver at the 2017 KL SEA Games.
Lih Kang, meanwhile, is approaching the event from a personal perspective.
“Last year, completing a 10km race was already a milestone for me. This year, I decided to go a step further,” said Lih Kang.
“You don’t start big, you start somewhere. For me, this is not about timing, but about finishing.”
He also encouraged more Malaysians to take up running, noting that consistency is key.
“You don’t need to run 21km. Even 3km or 5km is a start — what matters most is consistency.”
Two-time SEA Games marathon bronze medallist Muhaizar Mohamed is also expected to feature in the full marathon.
The race has drawn 50,000 participants, a significant jump from 33,000 last year, placing it in contention to be recognised as Malaysia’s largest running event, with an application submitted to the Malaysia Book of Records.
The two-day race will take place in Putrajaya on July 18-19, with the 5km and 10km events scheduled on the first day, followed by the half and full marathons.
