“I Cried Ugly, But It Was Worth It.”
After swimming 3.8 kilometres, cycling 180 kilometres, and running a full marathon in the blistering Langkawi heat, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman crossed the Ironman Malaysia finish line in 12 hours, 22 minutes, and 18 seconds — and with it, secured RM1 million in aid for his constituency.
The triathlon too place on 1 November, with the Muar MP announcing his goals and succesful completion on 2 November. The 32-year-old former Youth and Sports Minister had one goal: complete the triathlon in under 13 hours to unlock a RM1 million pledge from local fashion company Prima Valet. The funds will go toward food banks, laptops, and festive clothing for Muar residents.
“I came here with one goal — to secure RM1 million for Muar… Alhamdulillah, I managed to finish in under 13 hours, so now Prima Valet must fulfil its promise,” he told reporters after the race.
Vomiting, Cramping, Determination
Syed Saddiq admitted in a Facebook post after the even that the race had pushed him to his limits.
“Yes, I cried. Yes, I cried ugly. But it was worth it,” he wrote. “I felt like I was about to faint many times, my whole body was cramping, and I kept going in and out of the restroom because of vomiting and my body not being able to digest food.”
Despite the physical toll, he managed to beat his personal record from last year’s 13 hours and 13 minutes, improving by nearly an hour.
“The People of Muar Were Always On My Mind”
Syed Saddiq said the toughest part of the race was the final marathon stretch, but his motivation came from his constituents.
“I will do whatever it takes to ensure the welfare of my people is well cared for. Even though I vomited several times due to feeling unwell, I was determined to finish because the people of Muar were always on my mind, and I would never disappoint them,” he said.
Already Thinking About Next Year
The triathlon wasn’t just a fundraiser — it was a personal test of endurance.
“I joined this event to test my physical and mental limits… earlier, I wondered why I was putting myself through such pain, but once I crossed the finish line, I told myself I will join again next year,” he shared.
And he does not plan on stopping anytime soon.
From Langkawi to Muar — A Million Reasons to Keep Going
With sweat, tears, and willpower, Syed Saddiq shifted a personal challenge into positive community impact.
“If given the strength, perhaps even at the age of 100 I will continue taking part in triathlon sports, as I want to ensure my body and mind remain active — because to be a leader, whether in politics or otherwise, one must always be strong,” he said.
Watch the video here:
@thesundaily 2 Nov 2025: From sweat to success! Muar MP Syed Saddiq powered through the Ironman Malaysia in just 12 hours and 22 minutes, securing RM1 million from Prima Valet for his constituents’ welfare. The funds will go toward food banks, laptops, and festive clothing, proving that true leadership goes the extra mile (and swim, and ride!). 🏊♂️🚴♂️🏃♂️ #theSun theSunMY SyedSaddiq IronmanMalaysia #MuarStrong
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
“Even ‘Anwar’ is a better name” – Malaysian MP Proposes Renaming Rafflesia
“Last to Finish, First to Inspire” — Malaysian Runner Completes 42KM Marathon in 8 Hours
Former M’sian MP Harassed by Security at KLCC Over Palestinian Flag Pole, Mall Cites Safety Rules
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
