KUALA LUMPUR: The National Sports Council (NSC) has assured that rider safety will be the top priority when Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) takes place from Sept 28-Oct 5.
Concerns have mounted after 28-year-old Low Beng Seng was killed in a collision with a car during the Langkawi Legendary Ride on Sept 6, raising fresh questions about safety at cycling events on the island.
NSC director-general Jefri Ngadirin said organisers are working closely with the police and other agencies to ensure smooth operations throughout the prestigious race.
“We have held several meetings with the relevant parties. Police representatives were present to share their views. With the experience we’ve gained over the last three years, I am confident safety issues will not arise,” said Jefri at an event announcing BubblesO2 as sponsors of the King of the Mountain jersey on Sunday.
“The police have also agreed to increase manpower to ensure the race is well controlled.”
Jefri stressed that strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) are in place, enforced by both the police and the International Cycling Union (UCI).
“From our experience, we are confident we can organise it well and in an orderly manner,” he said.
He added that preparations have been made easier this year as the peloton will only cross the sea once, to Langkawi, compared with multiple crossings in 2024.
Last year’s route also included stages in Sarawak.
“Not many problems will arise this time, and we believe the event will run smoothly,” he said.
This year’s LTdL involves major spending to ensure world-class organisation.
Chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal said the 2025 edition will cost about RM19.5 million to stage, with RM7.5 million covered by sponsorships, including RM1 million in cash and kind from BubblesO2.
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