KOTA SAMARAHAN: Hock Seng Lee (HSL) is boosting community running in 2026 with a new Raya Relay Race on March 29, alongside the fifth annual HSL Samarahan Marathon on May 17.
The Relay Race, inspired by Japan’s Ekiden-style relays, features teams of five runners, with the first runner required to be female in the competitive category.
Each runner completes a 3KM loop within La Promenade’s gated community, for a total distance of 15KM.
Entry fees are RM150 per team, while the marathon event fees range from RM55 for 3km to RM110 for the half marathon.
HSL is offering cash prizes totalling RM50,000 for top teams and runners across both events, along with Best Dressed prizes.
Marketing and communications head Abraham Tiong said about 40 relay teams and 1,000 marathon runners have signed up, surpassing 2025 figures.
“The cheaper prices this year meet market demand. However, safety remains our top priority,” he added, noting improvements to the race route thanks to Jalan Tanjong Bako refurbishment and repaired streetlights.
He noted that the 42km full marathon will not be held in 2026 due to ongoing Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) construction along the Samarahan Expressway, but HSL plans to bring back the full route in 2027 via the Tanjong Bako-Sejingkat Bridge-BCCK course.
Meanwhile, Kota Samarahan Municipal Council chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ali praised HSL for its long-term commitment to community fitness and safety.
“My council is particularly pleased with HSL’s close collaboration with the Red Crescent in ensuring every year’s safety is improved.”
For more information and registration, visit lapromenademall.com.my or search #Samarathon2026 and #LaPromenadeEkidenRelay.
