SCORE Marathon 2026 by AIA Vitality: Malaysia’s Biggest Running Celebration Breaks Records in Putrajaya
The streets of Putrajaya were transformed into a sea of runners, supporters, families and fitness enthusiasts as SCORE Marathon 2026 by AIA Vitality successfully delivered its biggest edition yet.
Over the weekend, an incredible 51,077 participants from 53 countries gathered in Malaysia’s administrative capital, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a festival than a traditional marathon.
The landmark achievement also earned the event official recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records as the Largest Running Event in Malaysia, further cementing SCORE Marathon’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier running events.
For many participants, including myself, the weekend was about more than crossing the finish line. It was about celebrating fitness, community spirit and personal achievement alongside thousands of like-minded runners.
A Record-Breaking Weekend for Malaysian Running
SCORE Marathon has grown tremendously over the years, but the 2026 edition represented a new level altogether.
The event welcomed runners of all ages and abilities, from first-time 5KM participants to elite international marathon athletes competing for podium finishes. The participation of over 51,000 runners demonstrated how running has become one of the fastest-growing lifestyle movements in Malaysia.
Receiving recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records was a fitting reward for an event that has continuously raised the standard of race organisation and participant experience.
What made this achievement even more special was that the event coincided with the 10th anniversary of AIA Vitality, which has spent a decade encouraging Malaysians to adopt healthier lifestyles through active living and wellness initiatives.
More Than Just a Marathon
Unlike many traditional races, SCORE Marathon has successfully evolved into a complete lifestyle event.
The heart of the celebration was the lively Race Village, which remained active throughout the weekend. Visitors enjoyed live entertainment, fitness sessions, giveaways and interactive sponsor activities.
The atmosphere was electric from the moment runners arrived. Drum and percussion performances helped energise participants before flag-off, while cheerleaders welcomed runners back after completing their races.
DJ performances, fitness activities led by Anytime Fitness and numerous sponsor activations ensured there was always something happening throughout the day.
Families and supporters who were not participating in the race also found plenty to enjoy, making the event a true community gathering.
Technology Meets Sports with “William” the Humanoid Robot
One of the most talked-about attractions during the weekend was undoubtedly William, the humanoid robot presented by Official Innovation Partner Work E Robotics.
William quickly became a crowd favourite, interacting with runners, greeting visitors and appearing during prize-giving ceremonies.
Whether taking photos with participants or making appearances around the Race Village, William showcased how technology can be integrated into sporting events to create a more engaging experience.
For many visitors, it was their first time interacting with a humanoid robot at a running event.
A Truly Malaysian Running Experience
One aspect that continues to make SCORE Marathon unique is its strong Malaysian identity.
Along selected sections of the race course, runners were treated to local favourites such as traditional kuih and refreshing cendol.
While many international races focus solely on hydration and energy stations, SCORE Marathon adds a distinctly Malaysian touch that participants often remember long after race day.
The warm hospitality from volunteers and race crews also contributed significantly to the overall experience, earning praise from both local and international runners.
My SCORE Double Challenge Experience: 5KM and 21KM
As someone who enjoys pushing personal limits, I decided to take on the newly introduced SCORE Double Challenge.
The challenge required participants to complete races on both Saturday and Sunday, earning an exclusive interlocking finisher medal that symbolises the event’s theme: “The Conqueror Never Stops.”
For me, the journey started with the 5KM category on Saturday.
The atmosphere was already buzzing before sunrise. Thousands of runners filled the starting area, and the excitement was contagious. The 5KM route was enjoyable and allowed runners to soak in the festive atmosphere while maintaining a comfortable pace.
Crossing the finish line felt satisfying, but I knew the real challenge was still waiting the next morning.
On Sunday, I returned to the start line for the 21KM Half Marathon.
The early kilometres felt comfortable, but as the distance increased, the rolling hills of Putrajaya began to test both physical endurance and mental strength. Thankfully, the crowd support, enthusiastic volunteers and scenic route helped keep motivation high.
There were moments when fatigue started creeping in, especially during the later stages of the race. However, seeing thousands of runners sharing the same goal created an incredible sense of camaraderie.
Crossing the 21KM finish line was one of the most rewarding moments of the weekend.
Receiving the exclusive SCORE Double Challenge medal frame after completing both races made the achievement even more memorable. It wasn’t just about collecting a medal—it represented dedication, perseverance and the determination to keep moving forward.
As Bro Samurai, I can honestly say that the SCORE Double Challenge was one of the most enjoyable and well-organised race experiences I have participated in.
Elite Athletes Deliver Outstanding Performances
While recreational runners enjoyed the festival atmosphere, elite athletes produced equally impressive performances.
Vietnam’s Huynh Anh Khoi captured the Men’s 42KM International Open title with a time of 2:26:32, while fellow Vietnamese runner Pham Thi Hong Le won the Women’s category in 2:45:33.
Malaysia’s fastest male marathoner was Muhammad Haziq Hamzah, finishing in 2:44:45, while Jodie Lee topped the Malaysian women’s standings.
The Half Marathon featured one of the strongest fields in recent years.
Singapore’s two-time SEA Games marathon champion Soh Rui Yong claimed the Men’s International Open title in 1:11:53, while compatriot Goh Shing Ling won the Women’s International Open race in 1:23:12.
Malaysian running star K. Prabudass emerged as the fastest local male half marathon runner, while Nurul Juliana Shakira Abdul Halim led the Malaysian women’s field.
International Recognition Continues to Grow
SCORE Marathon is no longer just a major local event.
As a World Athletics Label Road Race, the event attracts participants from around the world while maintaining internationally recognised race standards.
The marathon features a World Athletics Certified Measured Course, is sanctioned by Malaysia Athletics, recognised by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and serves as a qualifying race for the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors.
These recognitions continue to strengthen Malaysia’s reputation as a destination for world-class road racing events.
Looking Ahead to an Even Bigger Future
According to SCORE Sports Management CEO Patricia Tan, the event has always been about more than organising a race.
The goal has been to create an experience that celebrates running, healthy living and community spirit while bringing people together.
Judging by the smiles across Race Village, the cheers along the course and the record-breaking participation numbers, that vision has clearly become a reality.
SCORE Marathon 2026 by AIA Vitality has successfully demonstrated that running events can be more than competitions. They can become celebrations that inspire healthier lifestyles, strengthen communities and create unforgettable memories.
With a Malaysia Book of Records title now proudly attached to its name, SCORE Marathon has raised the bar once again—and if this year’s edition is any indication, Malaysia’s biggest running celebration is only getting started.
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