KUALA LUMPUR – Ironman Malaysia and Ironman 70.3 Langkawi are set to make their long-awaited return to the idyllic shores of Langkawi Island, with more than 1,500 triathletes having confirmed their participation across the two races for this coming November 5.
In a statement, Langkawi Tourism Association chief executive officer Zainudin Kadir said the island hopes to generate RM55 million from Ironman Malaysia this year.
“Ironman Malaysia generated RM50 million when it was held before the pandemic. We are confident of surpassing that figure this year and are targeting to generate RM55 million.
“We are expecting at least 30,000 to 40,000 people will descend on Langkawi for the event.
“It is a massive boost for the local tourism industry, from the hotels to the F&B (food and beverage) and transportation sector.
“Seeing that 90% of the island’s revenue depends on tourism, the return of sports events like Ironman comes at the perfect time,” Zainudin said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents member Datuk Alexander Isaac said the Ironman community contributes massively to the local economy.
“The local economy benefits greatly, as the triathletes will arrive a week before the event, and they usually stay on a week after.
“They bring their families along too, who usually tour the island (for) sightseeing.
“All sectors will benefit directly and indirectly from this, as the spending creates a chain reaction,” he said.
Ironman Malaysia will feature a full distance comprising a 3.8-km swim, 180-km bike ride, and 42-km run, whereas Ironman 70.3 Langkawi is a half-distance version with a 1.9-km swim, 90-km bike ride, and 21-km run.
Participants will toe the start line on the beautiful beach at The Danna, Pantai Kok that weekend to cross the coveted Ironman finish line arch at the Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa, Pantai Chenang.
“Ironman Malaysia has a great history. The Langkawi courses provide scenic beauty and rewarding challenges.
“We have been waiting a long time to return to Langkawi, and I’m sure the participants are looking forward to testing themselves in this breathtaking setting,” said Ironman Asia managing director Jeff Edwards.
Ironman Asia regional director, C.G. Lim, said the event will play a key role in not only ending the year on a high but boosting the local tourism economy.
“Many local traders benefited greatly when we last hosted the event in Langkawi in 2019.
“We welcome not only the participants but also their families and friends to be a part of this,” Lim said.
Ironman Malaysia offers up to 55 qualifying slots for the 2023 VinFast Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, while there are 30 slots available for Ironman 70.3 Langkawi participants to the 2023 VinFast Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Lahti, Finland. – The Vibes, October 26, 2022
