Local runner Yeow Ni Jia won the Malaysian crown at the 18th edition of the Kuala Lumpur Standard Championship Marathon (KLSCM) 2026. The race took place at Dataran Merdeka on 4 October 2026. Debutant Esther Joy Chen claimed the women’s title, marking her first major victory. Singaporean runner Rachel See dominated the half marathon, finishing first in her category.
The KLSCM 2026 featured over 5,000 participants from across Malaysia and neighboring countries. Yeow Ni Jia completed the full marathon in 2 hours 18 minutes, securing her second consecutive title. Esther Joy Chen, competing in her first major championship, finished in 2 hours 34 minutes. Rachel See, representing Singapore, won the half marathon in 1 hour 12 minutes.
The event, held annually in Kuala Lumpur, has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s premier long-distance running competitions. This year’s race included a new category for young athletes under 20. Organizers reported strong participation, with a record number of international runners. The race course, which winds through the city’s historic and modern districts, was praised for its challenging yet scenic route.
The KLSCM has become a key platform for emerging talent in Malaysian athletics. Previous editions have seen the rise of several national champions who later competed internationally. This year’s results highlight the growing competitiveness of local athletes against regional and international competitors. The event is expected to continue attracting top runners in the coming years.
