26 July 2025

Stride for Stripes, Stand for Coexistence”: Malaysians unite for Wildlife Protection this Global Tiger Day

Over the weekend, the spirit of conservation came alive at the Run For Tigers 2025 event, held at Padang Semarak, Putrajaya Wetlands Park, on Saturday, 26 July 2025 in conjunction with Global Tiger Day.

Co-organised by Maybank and WWF-Malaysia, the 3.5KM fun run, saw an impressive turnout of over 1,000 participants of all ages - many turning up in vibrant jerseys, with some even donning playful animal costumes. The festive yet purposeful atmosphere perfectly reflected this year’s theme: “Stride for Stripes, Stand for Coexistence.”.

As threats to Malaysia’s wildlife grow, this theme serves as a powerful reminder that protecting the Malayan tiger also means preserving our forests, biodiversity, and the delicate balance of our ecosystem. It is a call for individuals, communities, and organisations to act with urgency and unity.

The event was officiated by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo A/L Kim, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC); Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Chairman of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation; and Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, WWF-Malaysia Chairman.

Also in attendance were members of the Maybank Board of Directors — En Shariffuddin Khalid, Mr. Vittorio Furlan, and Ms. Chiam Sou Hong - alongside Datin Paduka Marina and Datuk R. Karunakaran, members of the Maybank Foundation Board of Trustees, En. Shahril Azuar Jimin, Group Chief Sustainability Officer of Maybank, Ms. Izlyn Ramli, CEO of Maybank Foundation, and members of the WWF-Malaysia Board of Trustees.

Participants enjoyed a morning of conservation-themed activities. The “Spot the Wildlife” challenge encouraged runners to photograph model animals along the route, creating an interactive and educational experience. Meanwhile, the main field was buzzing with excitement as participants flocked to the various interactive booths by Maybank and WWF-Malaysia, as they showcased their products and services. Food trucks from Sama-Sama Lokal also added local flavours and refreshments to the vibrant atmosphere.

“Effective conservation is only possible through strong collaboration. ‘Run For Tigers’ reflects how the Government, partners and the public at large can unite to protect our wildlife and secure a future where people and nature thrive together,” YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo said.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa said: “Our partnership with WWF-Malaysia reflects Maybank’s ongoing commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability. We see sustainability not as a standalone endeavour but one that requires support from various stakeholders, be it partners or individuals, in order to drive real action. Supporting initiatives like ‘Run For Tigers’ helps us connect with the public and inspire behavioural change.”

“This is more than just a run. It’s a movement. With fewer than 150 Malayan tigers left in the wild, we must all come together to protect not only this iconic species, but also the many others that share its forest home,” said Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar. “By protecting the tiger, we also protect other wildlife such as the elephant, tapir, clouded leopard, sun bear and more - because harmony with nature brings hope not just for tigers, but for entire ecosystems.”

Over the years, WWF-Malaysia and Maybank have made significant strides in tiger conservation. In Belum-Temengor, one of the last strongholds for the Malayan tiger, intensified anti-poaching efforts since 2016 have led to a 98% reduction in active snares. In fact, these concerted endeavours contributed to Royal Belum State Park receiving CA|TS accreditation in 2023 — a first in Southeast Asia, recognising international standards for tiger conservation.

As the crowd dispersed and the final notes of music faded, the message remained clear: the future of the Malayan tiger is in our hands. Protecting one species safeguards entire ecosystems. Whether it's slowing down at wildlife crossings, reporting illegal activities, volunteering, or raising awareness — every action matters.

Together, we can protect what’s left. And restore what has been lost.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Chairman of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation, and Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of WWF-Malaysia, with the winner of the ‘Best Dressed’ Contest.

 

Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo A/L Kim, Secretary General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES); Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Chairman of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation; and Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of WWF-Malaysia, flagging off the Run For Tigers 2025

 

Runners gathered around the Maybank booth

 

Participants at the starting line, ready to run.