L’Étape M’sia by Tour de France is world’s second-largest L’Étape series: event organisers

KUALA LUMPUR – L’Étape Malaysia has been acknowledged as the world’s second-largest L’Étape by Tour de France event after receiving a total of 4,700 registered participants.

Speaking to The Vibes, L’Étape Malaysia co-organiser Muse Group Asia said they had closed the registration on April 11 – three weeks before the stipulated closing date – to limit the number of participants and abide by the government’s Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).

“We are glad we can finally do this after being postponed twice due to the pandemic and Covid-19 restrictions – we originally wanted to have it back in 2020.

“L’Étape Malaysia is organised for amateur riders on the back of the Tour de France − that’s the appeal for a lot of people,” said chief executive officer Riduwan Matni.

L’Étape Malaysia, which will be held at Desaru Coast, Johor, on June 4, is the brand’s inaugural race in Malaysia.

It offers distances of 140km and 60km and riders can choose to register themselves for the race as solo riders or as team members.

Organised against the breathtaking backdrop of Desaru Coast, avid cyclists from Malaysia and neighbouring countries can finally experience what it is like to compete in a Tour de France event.

“We want riders to gain a similar experience to that of the Tour de France. We also want them to have an immersive experience – not just to receive a participation medal.

“So, it makes sense to organise L’Étape in Johor. Desaru Coast is a destination that is appealing yet accessible to the masses. 

“We took into consideration the beautiful landscape along the coastline as well as the smooth flat roads and challenging hills.

“We feel that participants will be able to enjoy their stay and time spent with loved ones throughout the weekend at Desaru Coast,” Riduwan added.

Sports Johor Sdn Bhd (SJSB) – co-organiser of L’Étape Malaysia − believes the event “will be an eye-opener for Johor’s sporting industry and will help boost its tourism sector”, according to its general manager Mohd Johari Tarmidi. 

“Organising L’Étape Malaysia in Johor will benefit the state and locals in the long term. It will also empower the Johor sports industry to become a sports powerhouse by 2030 through our sports master plan.

“Sports has been identified as one of the key drivers in promoting a healthier lifestyle and an economically prosperous society.

“It can also help to bring in more foreign investments, create job opportunities and ensure sustainable careers for the locals.”

Apart from the race, Muse Group Asia and SJSB will be lining up other activities, such as cultural shows showcasing performances by French artists as well as the sampling of French cuisine prepared by top-notch French chefs. 

“So, the whole idea is for participants and visitors to come to Desaru Coast to ride and enjoy the activities we have lined up. 

“This is what sports tourism is all about – to bring people to the venue and increase the economic activity of the state,” Riduwan added.

The participation of Singaporeans and other foreign nationals, who make up nearly 20% of the total number, was made possible only after the country entered the endemic phase.

However, despite the relaxed Covid-19 regulations, Riduwan encourages all participants and visitors to strictly observe the current SOPs from the government, including the wearing of face masks and hand sanitisation as and when required.

“I don’t think Malaysia has ever had an amateur cycling event of this scale before.

“We encourage everyone to use their common sense and a Covid-19 self-test is required before they can participate in the race.”

The Vibes is the official media partner for L’Etape Malaysia, and is participating in two teams sponsored by the Vinod Sekhar Foundation.

The Vibes is a PETRA News company which also publishes the Bahasa Malaysia portal Getaran. – The Vibes, May 16, 2022