When the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) returned this year, the streets of the city were filled with energy, laughter, and determination. Among the thousands who showed up at the starting line were our members from the Future Running Club by WOMEN:girls. Each running for reasons deeply personal, yet united by the same goal: to move forward, together.

Running for Healing and Self-Love

For Fifi Aswana, the run symbolised redemption.

“I run for my mental health. It’s been a tough year in 2024, and I think I should redeem it for myself. Self-love.”

The adrenaline rush at the meetup point and the shared excitement before the race reminded her that healing doesn’t have to be a lonely journey.

“It’s a healthy community because we support each other in Strava and also when we meet every Friday… I know the club is having a good and fun run each week!”

Picture Credit: Fifi Aswana

A First Run to Remember

For Siti Adibah Norzan, this year’s KLSCM was a milestone — her first-ever running event.

“It feels so special and such a privilege to be able to start and finish the run with this group of girls. The most memorable moment was spending the day together in the city after the race.”

She described the Future Running Club as a truly safe space for all types of runners.

“I never once felt judged for being completely new to running. I felt heavily supported by this community to keep up with running three times a week, without fail.”

Picture Credit: Siti Adibah Norzan

For Arina Aziz, KLSCM 2025 marked a comeback after two years away from running.

“The moment I almost gave up nearing the finish line — my shin was hurting and my face was red — but I persevered on.”

What kept her going wasn’t just the goal to finish, but the energy of the women beside her.

“I feel an incredible rush of joy and empowerment because this space is so safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental. Being surrounded by this collective female power gives me a tremendous sense of belonging and inspiration.”

To her, the run was more than a physical challenge — it was a celebration of resilience, laughter, and shared purpose.

“The camaraderie is real! We share positive energy that makes the miles fly by. Doing it again now, even just for the fun run, was wholesome — definitely part of my core memory.”

Picture Credit: Arina Aziz

My First KLSCM!

For Aisyah, joining KLSCM 2025 was a personal milestone she had been preparing for since the early days of the Future Running Club.

“Ever since the Future Running Club was established, I started small, walking 2km, then 3km, then 4km, gradually preparing myself for the possibility of a 5km run.”

This year, she finally joined the 5km Fun Run, marking her first-ever marathon experience.

“I ran (okay, walked mostly) not just for fun, but also to support my fellow runners in the club and for WOMEN:girls.”

The route was nothing short of memorable — finishing at the iconic Stadium Merdeka and passing by some of Kuala Lumpur’s most recognisable landmarks, including Pos Malaysia and the National Library.

“It was refreshing to take in the city’s sights while moving at my own pace. What struck me most was the camaraderie among runners, their supporters, and even the organisers, volunteers, and partners. Everyone had their own personal reasons for running, yet all shared a common spirit of determination and self-improvement.”

Though she didn’t run the entire route, Aisyah embraced every moment of the journey.

“I may not have been the fastest — in fact, I walked a good portion of the route — but I savoured every step, every view, and every cheer along the way. This experience reminded me that running is not just about speed or distance, but about challenging yourself, enjoying the journey, and celebrating every small victory.”

With a smile, she added:

“I hope I remember to sign up next year and do it all over!”

Picture Credit: Aisyah Azreen

More Than Just a Run

For every runner in the Future Running Club, KLSCM 2025 wasn’t just about crossing the finish line. It was about showing up for themselves and for each other. It was about building a community where women uplift women — one stride, one heartbeat, and one finish line at a time.

Because here, every run is a reminder: we’re not just running for fitness.

We’re running for healing, growth, and sisterhood.