Malaysia as an international cycling destination

PETALING JAYA: The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is encouraging more Malaysians to take up cycling, while also promoting Malaysia as an international cycling destination.
KL mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Phesal Talib said while cycling is eco-friendly and easy to learn, it is also fast gaining popularity for both young and old because of its fun, healthy and communal nature.
"We at DBKL want to encourage more Malaysians to embrace this activity," he said, after cycling amongst a strong attendance of over 4,000 participants at the Cycle Asia Kuala Lumpur 2015, a two-day community cycling event, today.
"We are also trying to improve efforts made to showcase the city as a tourist destination, specifically for cyclists internationally," he added.
The Cycle Asia Kuala Lumpur 2015 is Malaysia's largest community cycling event on closed public roads, organised by Spectrum Worldwide with support from Tourism Malaysia, DBKL and Youth and Sports Ministry.
Spectrum Worldwide chief executive officer Chris Robb also lauded the efforts and support by the Mayor and Tourism Malaysia in promoting the event, and cycling in general.
"We could not have made this event a success without full support of the people, the Mayor and Tourism Malaysia. It is not easy to close roads in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, and it is only possible thanks to them," he said.
"We are committed to promote Kuala Lumpur as a cycling destination to bring in cyclist throughout the Asian region. We will continue our efforts in supporting the Mayor's aspiration to showcase Kuala Lumpur as a tourist destination, and Tourism Malaysia's commitment in promoting Malaysia as it has amazing cycling routes," he added.
The challenge, which saw participants cycle a 48km route spanning from Dataran Merdeka and across Kuala Lumpur's landscapes and iconic landmarks, was also joined by Tourism Malaysia director of domestic marketing division Musa Yusof.