Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor Names Maybank as Title Sponsor for Inaugural MAYBANK CYCLING SERIES JOHOR

Johor, 16 May 2024 – Cycling enthusiasts will be looking to Johor as Maybank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor (MSNJ) as the Title Sponsor for the upcoming inaugural cycling event symbolising a joint commitment from both parties to better community well-being, a healthier lifestyle and efforts in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

The MoU signing ceremony marks a significant milestone for Malaysia’s leading financial institution and the premier cycling event and is expected to witness over 7,000 cycling enthusiasts to converge for an event that celebrates both heritage and sustainability. Aptly named the Maybank Cycling Series Johor, the event is sanctioned by the Malaysia National Cycling Federation and is scheduled to take place on 14 September 2024, in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

Maybank President and Group CEO, Dato’ Khairussaleh Ramli said that this partnership is a testament to Maybank's dedication in fostering sustainability and an environment of well-being and excellence in line with its purpose to Humanise Financial Services. The Bank’s approach to a healthy lifestyle has always been reflected through the various sporting and health events organised with plans to further regionalise across the Group. Leveraging on sports to be more than just an event, the Maybank Cycling Series Johor is a platform to advocate for sustainable impact both in the economical and societal aspect.

“We are honoured to be on board as title sponsor for the inaugural Maybank Cycling Series Johor especially after noticing an increase in participative sports and outdoor activities, namely cycling and marathons. As communities place more emphasis on personal health and fitness, we hope to inspire not only a healthy and active lifestyle but also an increased awareness for the environment and sustainability. On a macro level, the event will bring huge benefits to the local economy while at the same time help raise Johor’s profile as a destination of choice for exciting events and cycling fans, as well as its commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability and promoting wellness among the community.”

The Maybank Cycling Series Johor is poised to inject a staggering RM3.4 million through local and international tourist spending, breathing vitality into the local economy. Its venue, Iskandar Puteri, will also stand to shine even brighter as it is destined to evolve into a premier cycling-friendly destination emphasised by its well-planned infrastructure and commitment to provide a safe experience for cyclists. Beyond that, Iskandar Puteri will solidify its identity as a modern and vibrant development endorsed by prominent stakeholders like Sunway, Gleneagles, Legoland, and Educity. Far more than a race, The Maybank Cycling Series Johor will serve as a resounding testament to Iskandar Puteri’s undeniable allure as a nexus of growth, sustainability, and potential.

Choose Your Cycling Adventure

Participants can select from two exciting distances:

• Road Race 120km: An adrenaline-packed challenge opens to individual male and female age group categories, promising a test of endurance and speed.
• Fellowship Ride 60km: Perfect for riders of all levels, this category is also open to both individual male and female participants by age groups. It offers a leisurely ride through Johor’s captivating landscapes.

The age groups available for each category are Men Under 23, Men Master A (24 to 35), Men Master B (36 and above), Women A (18 to 35), and Women B (36 and above).

Starting from Sunway Big Box Iskandar Puteri, both courses will lead riders on a picturesque route, unveiling many of Iskandar Puteri’s iconic attractions such as Legoland and EnerG X Park, Leisure Farm Resort, Kukup Golf Resort, The Museum Bugis coastline path, and more. Many of these destinations not only showcase the rich tapestry of Johor’s heritage and culture but also highlight a commitment to nurturing sustainability. As participants pedal through these paths, they will embark on an enriching journey, experiencing firsthand how these landmarks contribute towards eco-friendly exploration and sustainable practices. By participating in the Maybank Series Johor, riders themselves play a vital role in advocating for environmentally conscious practices and supporting initiatives aimed at preserving natural and cultural treasures.

As the wheels spin, a Festival Village springs to life at the starting venue offering a kaleidoscope of entertainment, arts, music, and hands-on activities such as cycling clinics and workshops. Pushbikes circuit races for children, ESG and CSR initiatives such as tree-planting, as well as exclusive health and wellness booths from event partners promise an unforgettable day.

Acknowledged by the Johor State Government, the Maybank Cycling Series Johor will also elevate Johor as a premier destination for national and regional sporting events, particularly cycling. “The Maybank Cycling Series Johor pledges an unforgettable sporting experience while positioning Johor as a captivating tourist haven. Support from the state government reinforces our commitment to not only ensure the success of sporting events in Johor but also to establish them as benchmarks for future endeavours in other locales. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to MSNJ, KPRJ Sports, Maybank, and other partners, offering our sincere best wishes for the success of this event,” says Tuan Mohd Hairi Bin Mad Shah, Chairman of the Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, and Cooperatives .

“MSNJ expresses sincere appreciation to our title sponsor, Maybank, for their unwavering support, and our event organiser, KPRJ Sports, for its collaborative efforts in bringing this inaugural event to life. The endorsement from the Johor State Government intensifies our excitement, ensuring the Maybank Cycling Series Johor becomes an unforgettable event. Beyond the cycling event, we see this as an opportunity to ignite enthusiasm and involvement within our community, particularly the youth, to foster a love for sports. MSNJ is committed to offering support and actively contributes to the growth of aspiring athletes in our magnificent state. The Maybank Cycling Series Johor serves as a platform for us to fulfil this commitment,” says Ts. Mohd Ekmaluddin Ishak, Director of Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor.

Registration opens on 16 May 2024 via www.johorcyclingseries.com

Photo Caption: 

MAYBANK CYCLING SERIES JOHOR : LAUNCH GROUP PHOTO WITH FIRST BIB NUMBERS PRESENTATION (From L-R)

1.        Yang Berhormat Datuk Pandak bin Ahmad, Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri Kota Iskandar

2.        Yang Berhormat Dato’ Lukman bin Abu Bakar, Chief Executive Officer of Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor Sdn Bhd (KPRJ)

3.        Yang Berusaha Tuan Haji Ts. Mohd Ekmaluddin Ishak, Director of Majlis Sukan Negeri Johor (MSNJ)

4.        Tuan Mohd Hairi Bin Mad Shah, Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Belia dan Sukan, Pembangunan Usahawan Dan Koperasi Negeri Johor

5.        Yang Berbahagia Datuk Hj. Hamirullah Boorhan, Head of Community Financial Services

6.        Yang Berhormat Dato’ Haji 'On bin Jabbar @ Ja'afar, Timbalan Setiausaha Kerajaan Johor (Sukan, Belia Dan Sukarelawan)

7.        Yang Berbahagia Pn Shazlina Md. Suffian, Head of Group Corporate Marketing, Maybank