A RECORD number of nearly 6,300 runners took part in the fourth edition of Alliance Bank’s Heritage Run at the historic Padang Kota Lama yesterday (July 12).
The run showcased Penang’s distinctive landmarks and multicultural identity, evolving beyond a heritage-inspired sporting event into a vibrant cultural tourism experience.
Alliance Bank Group chief financial officer Ronnie Royston Fernandiz flagged off the event. Held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, this special commemorative edition featured a refreshed format and exclusive limited-edition merchandise, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to community and sustainability while promoting Penang’s rich heritage.
Group chief executive officer Kellee Kam expressed delight over the overwhelming response from participants.
“The public and the people of Penang have been very supportive of this event, and we hope to carry this positive momentum forward into even greater success.
“At its core, this run is about encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle while celebrating Penang’s rich heritage and advancing sustainability. It strongly reflects the bank’s commitment as ‘The Bank for Life’ to fostering healthier communities and driving responsible, sustainable growth,” he said.
During the event, Alliance Bank also unveiled the KM TO RM Challenge 2026, Malaysia’s first run-to-earn savings challenge, which is designed to reward Malaysians for staying active while cultivating healthy financial habits.
Running from August to October 2026, the three-month challenge encourages participants to stay consistent in their running journey while unlocking rewards through their Alliance Bank Basic Savings Account/-i.
Speaking about the new initiative, Kam said: “Running is no longer just about fitness. It has become a lifestyle and a growing community that brings people together.
“At Alliance Bank, we believe the same discipline that helps people build healthier lives can also help them develop healthier financial habits. Through the KM TO RM Challenge 2026, we want to encourage Malaysians to stay active, stay consistent and be rewarded for building both health and wealth.”
This year’s Heritage Run featured three race categories: a 3km family walk, a newly introduced 10km competitive run designed for participants to achieve their personal fitness goals, and a 21km half marathon, offering up to RM24,400 in cash prizes.
To encourage participation across all age groups and foster a stronger sense of community, the run also introduced the “Best-Dressed Family Challenge” under the 3km category, inviting participants to take part in their finest traditional outfits.
In the Men’s Open 21km category, national runner Yeow Ni Jia emerged champion, followed by Lim Kok Leong and Edmund Pang.
In the Veteran category, Nik Fakaruddin Ismail took the top spot, with Amirullah Bambang and Leow Thai Lih finishing as first and second runners-up, respectively.
In the Women’s Open 21km category, Melanie Goh See Ler emerged champion, followed by Chew Huey Ming and Eryn Yen Ling Tan. Noor Amelia Binti Musa won the Veteran category, while Chew Lay Ling and Wong Mi-Chi finished as first and second runners-up, respectively.
In the Men’s Open 10km category, Mohammad Izul Amirul Mukmim emerged champion, followed by Mohamad Nur Radzman and Ong Wei Xiang. Armeet Singh won the Veteran category, followed by Mohd Faizul bin Muhaieddin and Tan Tong Hai.
In the Women’s Open 10km category, Ong Ee Ling claimed the title, while Heng Jia Yee and Lim Tung Ern finished as first and second runners-up respectively. Chuah Joo Khim emerged champion in the Veteran category, followed by Lim Siok Har and Foo Yin Yin.
All winners received finisher medals and cash prizes in recognition of their achievements.
Meanwhile, Isaac Alistair, Nora Sikin, Shalina Sarip and their families took home the Best-Dressed Family award, dazzling the crowd with their standout traditional outfits.
Every aspect of the race essentials was thoughtfully reimagined with sustainability in mind. From medals made of sustainably sourced bamboo to reusable canvas bags, the event memorabilia reinforced waste-reduction efforts by giving materials a second life.
These sustainability elements were incorporated throughout the event. The collectable race T-shirts were uniquely designed for each category and inspired by Penang’s rich cultural heritage, featuring elements such as the kebaya, prawn mee and manik shoes.
The lanyards featured batik-inspired motifs, while the exclusive canvas bags reflected Penang’s cultural identity.
Participants also enjoyed the #SupportLokal Bazaar, where Penang’s homegrown entrepreneurs showcased artisanal crafts and local delicacies, helping to boost grassroots economic activity.
More than just a race, the Alliance Bank Heritage Run brought the bank’s ESG commitment to life by championing environmental stewardship, celebrating culture, uplifting local economies and nurturing community well-being.
Separately, members of the public interested in joining the KM TO RM Challenge 2026 can register by July 31, 2026, by opening an Alliance Bank Basic Savings Account/-i.
Unlike conventional banking campaigns, the challenge rewards consistent behaviour rather than spending. Participants will complete monthly running milestones tracked via the BiiB app and receive rewards upon successfully completing each challenge.
With only 1,200 slots available, participants who complete the full three-month challenge will qualify for the grand prize draw, featuring Garmin Forerunner watches. Those who complete at least one month of the challenge will also be eligible for a separate consolation prize draw, with rewards such as JD Sports gift cards.
Pix courtesy of Alliance Bank
