TM THE TELECOMMNICATIONS PARTNER FOR LTdL2012
20 FEBRUARY 2012

KUALA LUMPUR – Telekom Malaysia Berhad has always been a significant contributor to the success of the biggest race in Asia, Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL), which enters its 17th edition from 24 February to 4 March.

The Telekom Malaysia (TM) brand has been synonymous with LTdL, their involvement in the growth of the race dates back to the very beginning in 1996. Having played a significant part in making this race into the grandeur level that it is now, evolving from being a stage sponsor, to title sponsor, team sponsor as well as yellow jersey sponsor in the previous editions. However, TM has always been identified as the main Telecommunications Partner for the 2HC race.

In a sponsorship press conference held today at LTdL Secretariat at Bukit Jalil, TM Chief Marketing Officer, Dato’ Rozalila Abdul Rahman in her speech said that TM’s sponsorship for LTdL is proof that the national telecommunications company supports the sports industry's effort to organize international sports tourism events in the country.

“TM is proud to be able to play our role once again as the Telecommunications Partner for this international sporting event. Marking the 17th year of TM’s involvement in this annual cycling event, our participation this year is testament of the Company’s continuous commitment towards the success of such national as well as international events. In addition, LTdL has put Malaysia as a preferred destination for sports.” she said.

“LTdL already has a strong history of bringing professional cyclists from around the world to compete in this prestigious tournament. TM is also playing our part in promoting a healthy lifestyle particularly among the younger generations by generating the interest on cycling, a sport that can be adopted as a family activity. It is also hoped that TM can further help unearth more budding Malaysian cyclists who will place Malaysia prominently in the international sports arena,” Dato’ Rozalila further elaborated.

Also present were MSN Sports Management Division Dato’ Hj. Ab Jalil Abdullah, LTdL 2012 chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal and Malaysian National Cycling Federation president Tuan Haji Abu Samah Abdul Wahab.

LTdL 2012 chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal commended TM for their constant support since the very start. “The TM brand has been synonymous with LTdL, they play a very important role in ensuring our event receives global attention via their Media Centre telecommuncations and network facilities.”

“Every year we have over 100 media personnel working on the race representing various local and international news media from all over the world. For TM, besides the world cycling media attention focused on the race, they will be taking advantage of the domestic and international branding opportunities as well. LTdL will benefit tremendously from this and we are honored for TM’s contribution and all the efforts taken towards ensuring the success of the race.” he added.

Going into its’ 17th edition, TM continues to partner with LTdL 2012 to ensure the smooth running of the event. The Sponsorship consists of telecommunications and network services throughout the event. TM will equip the Secretariat and Media Centres at each stage of the race with telecommunications and network facilities which include fixed line telephones, fax, Internet access and laptops as well as iTalk cards for the use of the organizing committee and the members of the media.

Apart from that, TM will also be putting up exhibition booths at selected start and finish LTdL Cyclefest venues promoting their latest products and services, while also distributing merchandise to spectators as part of the cavalcade run.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).