Kuala terengganu: More than 4,000 participants, including those from ASEAN member countries, took part in the ASEAN Solidarity Cycling Tour 2025, at Dataran Batu Buruk, here today. Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim stated that the cycling and running event aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and strengthen ASEAN regional ties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Adam Adli emphasized the role of sports as a unifying force, highlighting its potential to strengthen regional ties under the ASEAN umbrella. He made these remarks while speaking to reporters after flagging off the participants. The minister noted that Terengganu was selected as the venue for this event, held in conjunction with Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship this year, due to the state's strong history in cycling events and its production of many notable athletes in the sport.

Adam Adli mentioned that although it is a one-off event, the ministry hopes similar events could be organized again in the future. Meanwhile, Cambodian participant Kloth Karaney, 39, expressed that the programme could also enhance tourism destinations within ASEAN countries, especially Malaysia, and foster good communication and strong relationships among people from ASEAN member states.

Vietnamese participant Tran Chong Thai, 36, who is visiting Malaysia for the first time, praised the event and expressed his intention to promote Malaysia's tourism destinations to friends back home. He shared his appreciation for the city, stating, "I love this city (Kuala Terengganu). The event is good and the food here is also very nice."