A New Era of Performance Running Begins with Bold Initiatives and Community Engagement
Kuala Lumpur, 24 March 2025 – PUMA Malaysia is setting a new benchmark for athlete sponsorship, introducing a transformative “athlete-first” approach that redefines how elite runners are supported. This initiative is designed to provide top-tier athletes with exceptional resources while strengthening connections within the running community.
As part of this bold commitment, PUMA Malaysia has officially welcomed four of the country’s leading marathoners – Muhaizar Mohamad, Yeow Ni Jia, Ahmad Sayuti, and Naqib Haikal into its athlete roster, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the region’s running scene.
This groundbreaking program ensures they receive world-class training support, state-of-the-art performance gear, and global opportunities, solidifying PUMA’s role in elevating the region’s running scene.
Muhaizar Mohamad, a two-time SEA Games bronze medalist and six-time KL Marathon champion stands as a testament to resilience and excellence in Malaysian distance running. Alongside him, Yeow Ni Jia, Ahmad Sayuti, and Naqib Haikal – renowned podium finishers in Malaysia’s most competitive road races continue to establish themselves as the country’s top endurance athletes.
PUMA’s Commitment to Athlete Excellence
PUMA’s latest initiative marks a pivotal step in its mission to transform the Southeast Asian running landscape. With Singapore as the starting point, the brand is set to expand its impact across the region in 2025, reinforcing its dedication to performance running by providing regional athletes with world-class resources on par with their global peers.
Unlike conventional sponsorships that prioritize competition results alone, PUMA’s holistic approach ensures its athletes receive unparalleled access to essential tools for success, including:
- Innovative Performance Gear: Advanced running footwear & apparel, powered by cutting-edge NITRO technology designed for peak endurance, speed, and performance.
- Elite Race Sponsorship: Full support for both local and international events, enabling athletes to compete at the highest level while inspiring the next generation.
- Community Impact: PUMA athletes will lead community-driven initiatives like the PUMA NITRO Run Club, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of runners while strengthening the regional running community.
- PUMA Global Access: PUMA is committed to providing Southeast Asia’s elite runners with the same world-class resources as its global elite roster. Through direct interaction with PUMA’s global product and innovation teams, participation in NITRO lab testing, and connections with PUMA’s top-tier athletes worldwide, these runners gain exposure to elite-level training, research, and development.
- Athlete Empowerment: Project3 is PUMA’s groundbreaking initiative that gives sub-elite marathoners a pro-level race experience. With expert coaching from PUMA’s Elite Running Team, exclusive race-day gear, and financial incentives, it equips athletes in the 2025 Boston and London Marathons with the tools to compete at their peak. By bridging the gap between elite and sub-elite runners, Project3 underscores PUMA’s commitment to innovation and athlete empowerment worldwide.
Empowering Both Elite and Everyday Runners
PUMA’s athlete-first philosophy extends beyond professional competitors. The brand is dedicated to fostering an inclusive running culture, ensuring that both elite athletes and everyday runners benefit from this initiative.
Aspiring runners will have access to resources, mentorship, and training opportunities through the PUMA NITRO Run Club and upcoming social run clubs powered by PUMA Malaysia – both set to launch in April 2025.
The Future of Running with PUMA
This isn’t just about sponsorship, it’s about shaping the future of the sport. By integrating elite sponsorships with grassroots engagement, PUMA is shaping the future of running in Southeast Asia, ensuring that every runner, whether elite or recreational, finds their place within the PUMA family.
As the region gears up for an exciting 2025, PUMA’s vision is clear: to elevate Southeast Asian running to new heights, fostering talent, innovation, and community like never before.
The future starts NOW.
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