Tower runner Soh Wai Ching.
PETALING JAYA: It’s back to competition mode for tower runner Soh Wai Ching as he plans to make a run up the 45-storey Suntec Tower in Singapore on July 9, where he hopes to widen his world ranking points.
It will be his first competition running under Malaysia Berjaya colours.
On Thursday, the world No. 1 ranked Wai Ching received a one-year sponsorship worth RM111,600 from tycoon and philanthropist Tan Sri Datuk Vincent Tan.
Wai Ching, who returned home after spending 145 days in Dubai and the United States, welcomed the contribution through Vincent’s personal charity organisation Better Malaysia Foundation (BMF).
The 27-year-old’s own savings had depleted since two of his sponsors pulled out in March.
“I have to thank BMF for believing in my cause to make Malaysia soar in tower runs and for encouraging the value of being a giver,” said the sports science graduate.
“I’m grateful to be one of the beneficiaries of this foundation. I will similarly be committed to giving back to the community.’’
Wai Ching is motivated to steer Malaysia to the world No. 1 spot in the sport.
“Malaysia are ranked ninth in the world now. My next goal is to build a strong national team and lead them to compete on the international stage,” he said.
“I want to see Malaysia dominate the sport.
“I will bring two more runners to my next competition in Singapore and will also prepare for the World Championships next year,” said Wai Ching, who is also working on getting the sport into the programme for the 2027 SEA Games.
“The plan to get this sport into the SEA Games programme is underway. We’ll discuss with the Youth and Sports Ministry soon.”
