The historic town of Taiping played host to a vibrant celebration of endurance and community spirit as thousands of runners gathered at Dataran Warisan for the Taiping Half Marathon 2025 early Sunday morning.

Held under the banner “A Historic Run in the Heart of Taiping”, this year’s edition reaffirmed the event’s status as one of the most scenic and meaningful road races in the country.

Runners took on a picturesque yet challenging 21km course, flagging off at 4.30am from Dataran Warisan. The route weaved through some of Taiping’s most recognisable locations — from the tranquil Lake Gardens to bustling neighbourhoods like Kamunting and Bukit Jana — while also passing through the historic Jalan Taming Sari, a street lined with colonial-era landmarks.

With a total elevation gain of 89 metres, the course offered a mix of flat stretches and steady climbs — particularly around Tekah and Kamunting — before looping back toward the town centre for a strong finish.

Formerly known as the TRR Spin Run, the event has grown in both scale and stature — now proudly recognised as an official member of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS). This global affiliation ensures a race experience that meets international standards while celebrating Taiping’s unique heritage and charm.

Whether chasing a personal best or simply embracing the journey, participants experienced a route where heritage and nature converge — a race truly worthy of its tagline.

It was Ow Yong Jin Kuang and Vivien Ng who stole the spotlight in the 21km flagship category, crossing the line in 1:15:55 and 1:39:41, respectively.

“This race is AIMS-certified, which was a big reason I decided to take part — the results can be used for overseas race qualifications,” said Jin Kuang, a 38-year-old Perak native who runs a belacan-making business.

“I’m happy with my timing today, especially since I only just recovered from an injury in May. To be back at this level and clock 1:15:55 feels really satisfying. My personal best is 1:14.

“I don’t have major goals in running at this stage, as I’m moving into the veteran category soon. But if I can break 1:13, I’d be more than happy. I’m also planning to do a half marathon overseas next year, if the opportunity arises.”

In a remarkable twist, the women’s overall 10km winner — Yee Pei Ni — is none other than his wife. Even more impressive, she accomplished the feat just six months after giving birth.

“Usually, after childbirth, many women stop running. But my wife is very patient and disciplined. She gave birth just eight months ago, and now she’s back winning races,” said Ow proudly.

“We support each other a lot. We take turns to train, and we’ve always agreed that even as adults with work, marriage, and family, we should still have a hobby. Running is that shared passion for both of us.”

Vivien, an architect based in Hong Kong, was a class above in the women’s 21km race, taking the win just three weeks after completing her debut full marathon.

Originally from Selama, Perak, and a former student of a Taiping high school, the 27-year-old revealed that her participation in the event was a spontaneous decision.

“Although I’m currently based in Hong Kong and hadn’t initially planned to race, it just so happened I was on leave this week. I came across a post by my friend’s dad, who’s one of the organisers — and the medal design caught my eye! It was so beautiful, I signed up right away,” she said.

Having recently completed the Gold Coast Marathon in 3:22 to qualify for the 2026 Boston Marathon, Vivien had limited training in the weeks leading up to Taiping due to recovery.

“I’m absolutely happy! This was my first half-marathon in such intense heat and humidity, so I started conservatively. It’s not a personal best, but it’s definitely a strong performance under these conditions,” she added.

While she doesn’t actively track her victories, Vivien previously won the 2025 Taiping Endurance Challenge’s six-hour category with a record 19 loops — roughly 60km.

“I try not to put pressure on myself with rigid targets, but breaking 1:30 in the half-marathon is definitely something I’d love to achieve. Long-term, I hope to complete all six World Marathon Majors.”

Race director Ahmad Azri of MMTF Consultant credited the successful execution to the dedication of the organising team, volunteers, local authorities, and the supportive Taiping community.

“Organising a race like this is always a team effort, and I’m proud of how the entire Taiping community came together to deliver such a seamless experience for our runners,” said Ahmad.

“Taiping has long been a gem in Malaysia, and we’re thrilled to have showcased its beauty on a global stage through the Taiping Half Marathon.

“With AIMS recognition, we’ve raised the bar not just for ourselves but also for what participants can expect — a race that’s both scenic and professionally executed.

“From start to finish, the energy was incredible. We couldn’t have asked for a better day — the weather held up, the volunteers delivered, and the runners showed true heart.”

The Taiping Half Marathon 2025 also attracted a strong global field, with participants from 26 countries uniting at the starting line — including the United States, Japan, Australia, China, India, and the United Kingdom — further cementing the Taiping Half Marathon’s growing international appeal.

This event also received strong endorsement from various government agencies, including the Perak State Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Tourism Malaysia — further affirming its position as a premier running event in the national sporting and tourism calendar.