An aerial view of Aspen Vision City, a masterfully planned metropolis with comprehensive infrastructure and an array of commercial and residential components.
PARTICIPANTS of the Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon 2024 on Dec 15 will get to enjoy breathtaking views as they race.
For the first time in the event’s long history, it will kick off at Batu Kawan on the mainland, and go back and forth across the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge or second Penang bridge.
The starting and finishing points will be at the sprawling 99.6ha Aspen Vision City – a RM13bil flagship development of Aspen who is the marathon’s main sponsor.
Aspen’s president and group chief executive officer Datuk Murly Manokharan said it will be a good way for the public to explore the satellite city which is being developed in phases. Several have already been completed and are thriving.
“Our sponsorship of this iconic event is a direct reflection of our core values and mission, which is to champion sustainable development and enhance communities.
“It allows us to actively engage and contribute to the well-being of the community by fostering a healthy, balanced lifestyle while promoting inclusivity.
“With over 20,000 expected to participate, the marathon would also boost tourism and stimulate economic activity in the region, directly benefiting local businesses,” he shared.
He said Aspen Vision City – located in the Bandar Cassia precinct of Batu Kawan – embodies their ethos of creating vibrant, forward-thinking spaces where people can thrive.
Participants under the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon and 10km open/junior run categories will get to see the Vervea commercial precinct, the lush 10.1ha Central Park and several completed residential components such as Vertu Resort and Viluxe Premium Terraces.
The Vivo Executive Apartment is also slated for completion by year-end.
(From left) Ikano Centres commercial director Arnoud Bakker, Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Ikano Centres managing director Adrian Mirea, Aspen Trade Division director Janice Lim, Aspen chief financial officer Lim Soo Aun, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Aspen Corporate Division director Nadiah Abdullah at the press conference to announce the Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon 2024.
After the race, one could also enjoy some shopping or indulge in various food and beverage options at IKEA Batu Kawan, Klippa Shopping Centre (Phase 1) and Klippa Drive-Thru.
“Once a hinterland, Aspen Vision City is poised to become a self-sustaining metropolis.
“Each development was thoughtfully designed to enhance the quality of life of people in the area.
“The marathon’s international reach also provides an opportunity to elevate Aspen and Penang’s visibility on the global stage and highlight our shared ambitions in building vibrant, inclusive communities, while adhering to strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles,” Murly continued.
He said Aspen would also be sponsoring 14 visually-impaired persons to participate in the marathon as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.
A group of underprivileged children from The Ramakrishna Ashrama (orphanage) would also be sponsored to take part and serve as guide runners for the visually-impaired persons.
“Our primary aim is to empower the visually-impaired persons to transcend their limitations and participate in outdoor sporting activities alongside others.
“Meanwhile, the underprivileged children would also gain meaningful experiences and develop a strong sense of compassion and community spirit.
“To all other participants and spectators of the marathon, we also encourage you to embrace every moment of this incredible event.
“Enjoy the camaraderie, celebrate the spirit of competition and cherish the opportunity to come together as a community.
“Your participation not only contributes to your personal journey, but also supports the greater cause of inclusivity and well-being,” Murly added.
To view the route map or register for the marathon, visit www.penangmarathon.gov.my.
Registrations close on Oct 15.
