What a find to see this sub-forum on cycling in Malaysia!

From the very first post - I wouldn't say that cycling is "relatively new". There is a long tradition of cycling for basic transportation, for recreation and for utilitarian purposes. There is even a history of road racing stretching back to the late 1950's. As far back as the early 1960's, there was even a stage race , maybe not held yearly nor having lasted long, but if my memory serves, covering the distance from KL to Kedah with a round island stage in Penang.

There was a small but fairly active road racing community in Penang of which I was part of as a teenager. The driving force behind the Penang Cycling Association was one Adris Ahiari who was coach, organiser and everything in between. The lessons he taught are still with me and as useful as ever.

Bicycle use has a long history and I dare say the vast majority of households had at least one bicycle. In my opinion, the popularity of the bicycle was first eclipsed by the emergence of the Honda Cub.
It was very encouraging to see the beginning of the Tour Langkawi and it's present status as an internationally respected race.

I think what is minimal in the history of the bicycle in Malaysia is bicycle touring, probably due to climatic conditions. For that reason, I don't think it will ever gain much popularity. If there are increasing numbers of recreational groups riding, all the better for the continued growth of cycling!