Friday, April 18, 2025

On the Road: Why We Need to Rethink How We Drive

Lately, I've been seeing more and more news about highway accidents in Malaysia—almost every day, there's a report of a collision, injury, or worse, a fatality.

I'm currently on a road trip from north to south, travelling from Bangkok to Singapore, and I've had the chance to observe the driving culture firsthand. And to be honest, it's frightening.

Some drivers treat the highway like an F1 track—zig-zagging through traffic as if every second saved is worth risking a life. But for what? To be one car ahead? It's really not worth the danger. Getting to your destination safely should always be the goal.

With the rain pouring down, I noticed some still driving as if the roads were dry and empty. A sudden swerve or hard braking on a slippery surface can cause a serious accident, not only affecting you but everyone around you. One wrong move and the consequences can be devastating.

Motorcyclists, too, have been weaving through traffic, even between the fast lanes. I get that time is precious, and many are just trying to get to work or home. But squeezing between speeding vehicles, especially in wet weather, is extremely risky. Our roads may be generally alright, but let's be honest—no road is perfect. One small stone or an unseen pothole is all it takes to lose control and skid.

Some of the traffic delineators here are clearly missing or broken.
These are meant to guide vehicles and create safer merging or give-way zones. 

A random shot while heading towards Terowong Pechala.

Snapped this from my hotel room—can really see how busy the roads are.

At the same time, I've noticed slower drivers occupying the fast lanes, even when they're clearly not in a rush. If you're driving slower, it's important to be mindful and move to the left lane. Blocking the fast lane doesn't just create frustration for others—it creates a dangerous situation that could easily be avoided.

Having experienced different driving behaviours across countries, it's clear: the road belongs to everyone, and we all share the responsibility of keeping it safe. It's not just about your own journey—it's about being considerate and mindful of everyone else on the road.

Drive responsibly, respect the lanes, and remember that your actions have an impact on the safety of others.

Let's Hear From You!
Now that I've shared my thoughts on the state of driving on Malaysia’s highways, I'd love to hear from you. What’s one thing that frustrates you the most while driving? Is it something you've noticed during your own road trips or in everyday traffic?

Feel free to drop a comment below and share your experiences. We can all learn from one another and, perhaps, make our roads a little safer together.

Stay safe and drive responsibly! 

May x

Thursday, April 17, 2025

KLSCM 2025 Is Here

The Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is back this year with exciting updates. For the first time ever, the race will finish at the Stadium Merdeka, a dream come true for many runners. Due to ongoing upgrades at Dataran Merdeka, the start line will be relocated to the city centre (exact location to be confirmed).

I’m grateful to be eligible for priority registration again this year. I had signed up in 2024 but couldn’t run due to an ankle injury after a fall in Mongolia — it was a real disappointment.

KLSCM holds a special place in my running journey — it’s where I achieved my personal best for the full marathon. I love the experience of running through Kuala Lumpur, with its energy, the crowd, and the shared sense of purpose among fellow runners. The atmosphere is always lively, and it reminds me why I love joining big races like this.

Throwback to KLSCM 2023

Here’s what you need to know about KLSCM2025:
Race Dates:
Saturday, 4 October 2025:
  • Pantai KL 10km: 6:00 am
  • 5km Fun Run: 7:45 am
  • Kids Dash: 10:00 am
Sunday, 5 October 2025:
  • Full Marathon: 3:30 am
  • ASICS Half Marathon: 4:45 am
Registration Info:
  • Priority Registration: 17–21 April 2025
  • Public Registration: 22 April – 31 July 2025 (or until sold out)
  • Run for a Reason (RFAR) & Corporate Challenge: 17 April – 31 July 2025 (or until sold out)
And with a brand new route this year, I’m curious to see how it feels — who knows, maybe the fresh route will bring a pleasant surprise! I’m excited to experience the course and enjoy returning to KLSCM.

Looking forward to making a strong comeback this year and experiencing the new finish at Stadium Merdeka.

📍 For more info or to register, head to the official KLSCM website: www.kl-marathon.com

May x

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2025 is Back

After missing last year’s Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, I told myself I would be back—and now it’s official. #SCSM2025 is now open for registration, and I've signed up.

Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2023

Why did I skip 2024?
It wasn’t about trying something new. I went back to a race I hadn’t run in a while. One that used to be a regular on my calendar - The Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok. I used to run it every year before COVID. It was usually held in February and had become a fixed part of my race schedule. However, after the pandemic, the event was moved to December, and for years, it clashed with SCSM.

In 2024, I made the tough decision to skip Singapore and return to Bangkok.

You can read more about that journey here.

So why come back?
There’s just something about SCSM that kept calling me back. And no, it’s not because I missed the humidity.

Maybe it’s because this run is where I track my growth. And every year, I show up as a different version of myself.

Or maybe it’s the same organiser, same vibe, smooth logistics, the crowd energy, or the feeling of crossing the finish line in a sea of sweaty, proud runners.

Honestly, part of it might also be the FOMO. When race day rolls around and everyone’s posting medal selfies and finish-line shots taken by those amazing photographers... you just want to be in that frame, too.


And let’s be real—who doesn’t want a good race photo? The SCSM photographers are pros. 

Whatever the reason, I’m back. Even after a season of lazing around, skipping runs, and making excuses, I’m ready to get moving again.

Shout-out to the event photographers.
Somehow, they manage to catch you at your best.

Here’s what you need to know about SCSM2025:
Date: 6–7 December 2025
Registration Fees (Super Early Bird):
• Marathon – $137
• Half Marathon – $115
• 10km – $93
• 5km – $71
• Ekiden (per team) – $545
• Kids Dash – $44

In 2025, SCSM will switch to a two-day format, replacing the usual three-day schedule. This change is intended to enhance the race-day experience, making it smoother and more enjoyable for all participants.
• 6 Dec (Sat): Half Marathon, 5km, and Kids Dash
• 7 Dec (Sun): Marathon, 10km, and Ekiden

To register for SCSM 2025, visit the official website or head here.

For more details and updates, check out:
• The official site – www.singaporemarathon.com 

So, who’s joining me at SCSM2025?
Let’s train, suffer, and celebrate together. Drop a comment or message me if you’re in!

May x

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Stop Spreading Fake AI Content

Since the earthquake struck, I have been reading and seeing a lot of news about the devastation in Myanmar, and it has been heartbreaking. This is the second time I have encountered such a disaster myself (this time is the scariest), but I am incredibly grateful that we are safe and still have a place to stay. However, the same cannot be said for Myanmar, especially the hardest-hit areas. Seeing the news from BBC this morning left me feeling absolutely disgusted.

In times of crisis, humanity is supposed to come together, offering support and solidarity to those in need. But instead, some people choose to exploit suffering for attention, views, and engagement. The recent earthquake in Myanmar has not only left families in devastation but has also become the subject of fake AI-generated videos and images designed to deceive and manipulate.

The spread of false information during a disaster is more than just irresponsible—it is cruel. Fake AI videos and images of destruction have flooded social media, misleading people into believing fabricated stories while real victims struggle for survival. This not only disrespects the pain and suffering of those affected but also diverts crucial attention and resources away from legitimate relief efforts.

Those responsible for creating and sharing such fake content need to understand the harm they are causing. Every false post spreads panic, distracts from urgent relief efforts, and disrespects those truly suffering. Their actions go beyond irresponsibility—they actively hinder real humanitarian aid.

Why do people do this? Some crave viral fame, while others exploit tragedies to push hidden agendas. Whatever the reason, the impact is severe. False information can cause unnecessary panic, spread misinformation, and even slow down critical aid efforts. Worse, it desensitises the public, making them question the authenticity of real disaster footage.

Social media platforms must also take responsibility by cracking down on misleading AI-generated content, especially during humanitarian crises. These platforms have the power to stop the spread of lies and protect those who need help. It's time for them to act.

If you come across such content, do not share it. Instead, report it. Call out those responsible. Social media platforms must also take accountability by cracking down on misleading AI-generated content, especially in times of humanitarian crises.

Let’s focus on what truly matters—helping those in need. Instead of giving attention to falsehoods, channel your energy into supporting organisations making a real difference.

Spreading truth saves lives. Let’s not allow misinformation to overshadow the real crisis at hand.

May x

Most recent post

Changing My 2026 Running Plans After Surgery

I had quite a few races planned for 2026. But sometimes, life has other plans. Why am I changing my plans? I recently had surgery to remove ...

Popular posts