Malaysian tower runner sets new Penang Hill record on Merdeka Day

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian tower-running world champion Soh Wai Ching has added another national record to his impressive résumé, completing the Penang Hill climb in under 26 minutes on Merdeka Day.

The achievement marks the second national record set by Soh in vertical running, underscoring his dominance in the discipline that combines speed, endurance and the ability to handle extreme elevation gains. Tower running, which involves racing up the stairs and slopes of tall structures or natural elevations, has gained increasing recognition as a competitive sport globally.

Soh's record-breaking performance on August 31 coincided with Malaysia's 66th National Day celebrations, adding patriotic significance to the accomplishment. The Penang Hill ascent, one of the country's most challenging vertical running courses, has become a benchmark for elite athletes in the discipline.

As a world champion in tower running, Soh continues to push the boundaries of human endurance and speed in vertical athletics. His latest achievement is expected to inspire other Malaysian athletes to pursue excellence in this emerging sporting discipline.

Vertical running competitions have expanded significantly across Asia in recent years, attracting both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking to test their limits on demanding courses.