The third edition of JAWI Run 2025 was held on Sunday, 20 July 2025 at Dataran Wawasan in Putrajaya. Organizers scheduled an early 3:00 AM flag off (I believed for other category it being much earlier) to beat the heat and take advantage of cool morning air. This year’s race introduced a new 30KM distance in addition to the established 21KM (half-marathon) and 10KM events. For recreational runners and families there were also 5KM and 3KM “fun run” categories.
The JAWI Run organized by the Federal Territory Islamic Affairs Dept (JAWI) and KoPPZ Berhad, was promoted as a community based event open to all ages. In line with that spirit, thousands of local runners and families turned out for a vibrant, inclusive morning of running.
Race Highlights and Results
Competition was fierce in the longer distances. In the new 30KM men’s open race, Paul Kibet finished first in 1:39:31 (Kenyan athletes also took second and third). The women’s 30KM was won by Kabui Teresiah in 2:13:32.
The half-marathon (21KM) lived up to its name: Kennedy Lilan won the men’s half with 1:11:06 (just one second ahead of the runner-up), and Mercy Jebiwott Kigen topped the women’s half in 1:21:41.
On the shorter 10KM course, local runners prevailed: Malaysian Ahmad Syakir Alwi took the men’s title in 33:57, and Dagreat Izzura won the women’s 10K in 44:24. These fast finishing times reflect the high caliber of athletes on the Putrajaya course.
Community and Family Fun
Beyond the competition, the JAWI Run was very much a community affair. Organizers emphasized family-friendly fun: the 3KM “Family Run” and 5KM “Fun Run” were open to all ages, so parents could run with children and casual joggers could take part. Many participants noted the vibrant, inclusive atmosphere as a special highlight. Along the route, volunteers from local running clubs and community groups cheered on finishers. (Note: Participants were also reminded by JAWI to dress modestly and appropriately for the early-morning event).
Looking Ahead
Overall, JAWI Run 2025 successfully combined athletic challenge with community spirit. The scenic Putrajaya setting and early start made for a memorable morning, and the mix of distances meant everyone from elite runners to families could join. Congratulations to all the winners and finishers!
Below is winner in table for easier reference.
| Distance | Category | Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30KM | Men’s Open | Paul Kibet | 1:39:31 |
| 30KM | Women’s Open | Kabui Teresiah | 2:13:32 |
| 21KM | Men’s Open | Kennedy Lilan | 1:11:06 |
| 21KM | Women’s Open | Mercy Jebiwott Kigen | 1:21:41 |
| 10KM | Men’s Open | Ahmad Syakir Alwi | 33:57 |
| 10KM | Women’s Open | Dagreat Izzura | 44:24 |
We look forward to seeing this event grow (and welcoming more triathletes) at next year’s JAWI Run. Assalamualaikum!
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