The Malaysia Sarong Music Run (MSMR) made a colourful comeback to Kuala Lumpur this Malaysia Day 2025, and I was so thrilled to be a part of it as well as witness its third edition in full swing!

What started as a unique community run has now grown into a full-blown cultural celebration… and this year, it brought together more than 15,000 runners, all proudly dressed in their favourite sarongs as a symbol of unity and identity.

The city centre was buzzing with music, energy, and tradition, as the 5KM route turned into more than just a run… it became a moving cultural showcase. Along the way, we passed through interactive cultural zones, traditional performances, and the highlight for many (myself included): over 40,000 pieces of kuih from every corner of Malaysia!

From apam butter and bingka jagung in the Borneo Zone, to seri muka and talam keladi up north, and puteri ayu, kole kacang, and more down south — the kuih trail was literally a sweet journey through our nation’s heritage.

It wasn’t just about the food and fun, though. The official ceremony was officiated by Dato Sri Tiong King Siong, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and Dato’ Seri TPr. (Dr.) Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Mayor of Kuala Lumpur…. Their words echoed what we all felt: that MSMR captures the spirit of Malaysia Day — through what we wear, what we eat, and how we move together as one.

This year also introduced something new: the Malaysia Speed 5KM Race, giving local runners a chance to show their competitive side, alongside the fun runs and family-friendly segments. Collaborated with LOCCO, the community-driven cultural platform behind Keretapi Sarong, MSMR 2025 was driven by JETOUR Malaysia as Main Sponsor and Official Car Partner. The event also received full support from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) as a cultural lifestyle showcase under the national tourism strategy…

“A standout element of MSMR is the widespread use of the sarong, a traditional piece of clothing that transcends generations and backgrounds. Runners and families alike donned the sarong with pride, creating a striking sea of colour and cultural pride. “It’s moving to witness thousands coming together, united by a single cultural element -the sarong, in Malaysia Day 2025 celebration. It’s more than just a traditional garment; it’s a shared identity,” said Eddy Casmady, President of Malaysia Marathon and the Founder of MSMR.

MSMR was first introduced in February 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, attracting 11,000 participants. This was followed by the Sarawak Edition in Matang, Kuching, which welcomed over 5,500 runners and 20,000 visitors.

With its continued growth, MSMR is fast becoming a key highlight in Malaysia’s tourism and lifestyle scene, a reflection of unity, heritage, and celebration.

To me, what makes MSMR so special is how it redefines what tourism in Malaysia can look like: immersive, expressive, and rooted in who we are. It’s not just a run — it’s a living cultural museum on the move, and I can’t wait to see how it grows as we head toward Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

A strong coalition of partners and sponsors also supported the MSMR.

Sri Talamaz takes centre stage as the Official Kuih Supplier, providing a delectable spread of 40,000 traditional treats, turning the run into a cultural feast.

Oatside joins in as the Official Plant-Based Drink Partner, and Food Port Fest completes the culinary experience as the Official Food Fest Partner.

Hydration needs throughout the run are covered by Le Minerale, the Official Mineral Water Partner, while ASICS steps in as the Official Footwear Partner. 

Malaysia’s renowned Hameediyah Restaurant brings a taste of tradition as the Official Nasi Kandar Partner.

Timing precision is ensured by both Checkpoint Spot, as the Official Timing System Partner, and Garmin, as the Official Timing Partner