PUTRAJAYA, 23 June 2025 – This past weekend, the heart of Malaysia pulsed with more than just city life — it throbbed with sweat, spirit, and the sounds of over 4,500 determined athletes pounding pavement and pedaling with purpose. POWERMAN Malaysia 2025 by OMODA | JAECOO celebrated its 20th year, and I was right there amidst the cheers, stories, and emotions that made this the duathlon of the year — if not the decade.
The POWERKIDS event for those aged 6 to 15 years old, saw over 500 participants, a testament to how the event provides a platform for budding athletes to go further.
It’s not every day that sports become a symbol of something greater. But in that moment, the finish line wasn’t just about time or ranking. It was about belonging, overcoming, and being seen. That kind of emotional impact stays with you.
The event was flagged off with full ceremony and honour, featuring Y.Bhg Dato’ TPr. Fadlun Bin Mak Ujud, President of Putrajaya Corporation, and Emily Lek, Vice President of OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia. True to its innovative brand presence, the JAECOO J7 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) led the race as the official lead car — a symbol of how cutting-edge technology and endurance sports can walk (or run and bike) hand in hand.
With an impressive time of 2:50:59, the first place for the Classic male open category was clinched by Raymund Torio from the Philippines.
Malaysia’s Esther Joy Chen took first place in the Classic female open category with a winning time of 03:11:40.
Among the elite athletes, the top spot in the Classic male open category went to Raymund Torio of the Philippines, finishing with an impressive 2:50:59. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s very own Esther Joy Chen claimed first in the Classic female open category with a time of 3:11:40 — a proud moment for local talent.
Speaking with Jeffrey Ross, General Manager and Race Director, you could feel the emotion in his words: “We started with just 200 participants in 2002. Now, two decades later, we’ve welcomed over 4,500 — including 40% first-timers. That’s the magic of POWERMAN: it evolves, but never loses its heart.”
As an editor covering human-driven stories, I couldn’t help but admire the sheer range of people who showed up. From elite athletes chasing PBs to hobbyists reclaiming health goals, families running together, to international participants proudly waving their country flags — this was unity in motion.
Over 20 children from BikeIsAble participated in the POWERKIDS event, a local initiative that supports children with severe physical disabilities. With the help of caregivers, friends, and family who pushed them in specially adapted buggies, these incredible young athletes crossed the POWERMAN finish line.
Beyond the race, the 3-day expo was a haven for fitness enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike. With over 50 exhibitors including Kahf (a halal, nature-inspired men’s grooming brand), 100PLUS, Shimano, and PURPOSE Performance Wear, it became a convergence of performance, wellness, and lifestyle — a perfect synergy with OMODA | JAECOO’s “People + Car + Life” philosophy.
Emily Lek from OMODA | JAECOO summed it up beautifully, “It’s not just about the race. It’s about showing the world what’s possible when people come together — when brands, communities, and individuals share a common goal of self-betterment and strength.”
And truly, as the final medals were placed around sweaty necks and tired but proud faces looked toward their loved ones, it was clear — this wasn’t just a duathlon. It was a celebration of spirit. One that I, and all of us at 1319 Media, are proud to have witnessed and shared.
