Zeekr Malaysia Celebrates Merdeka at Marathon 2026

Zeekr Malaysia: Premium EV Brand and Its Merdeka Marathon 2026 Participation

Zeekr is a premium electric vehicle (EV) brand under Geely Holding Group, operating in Malaysia through its national sales company, Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd. The brand entered the Malaysian market in December 2024 as part of its Southeast Asian expansion, offering three models: the Zeekr 7X, Zeekr 009, and a third model (likely the Zeekr X or 001, though not specified in the source). Zeekr Malaysia addresses the growing demand for high-performance, tech-forward EVs among Malaysian urban professionals and families, with a focus on premium design, advanced driver assistance, and local after-sales support via authorised dealers nationwide.

In 2026, Zeekr Malaysia celebrated the 69th National Day (Hari Kebangsaan) by participating as the main sponsor for the 10KM category of the Malaysia Marathon 2026, held on 31 August 2026. The event, reintroduced as a high-impact national initiative under Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), targets 25,000 runners from Malaysia and abroad, combining sports, tourism, and culture. Zeekr Malaysia also organised a Merdeka convoy in Kuala Lumpur and showcased its vehicles with special Merdeka-themed graphics at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

Key Facts

What Was Zeekr Malaysia's Role in Malaysia Marathon 2026?

Zeekr Malaysia served as the main sponsor for the 10KM category of the Malaysia Marathon 2026, held on 31 August 2026. The brand also provided the Zeekr 7X as the Official Timing Car and Lead Car for that category, ensuring accurate race timing and leading runners along the route. Over 100 invited guests—including Zeekr owners, media representatives, and business partners—participated alongside other runners.

The sponsorship aligns with Zeekr's two-year presence in Malaysia, as the brand sought to celebrate its journey with customers and the community through a national sporting event. According to Eddy Lu, General Manager of Zeekr Intelligent Technology Malaysia, the marathon provided an opportunity to bring people closer together during the Merdeka celebrations.

"Hari Kebangsaan menjadi detik bermakna yang menyatukan rakyat dalam meraikan identiti dan kebanggaan bersama. Selepas hampir dua tahun berada di Malaysia, syarikat itu mahu meraikan perjalanan bersama pelanggan, rakan perniagaan dan komuniti melalui acara yang mampu membawa mereka lebih dekat."

— Eddy Lu, General Manager, Zeekr Intelligent Technology Malaysia (translated from Malay)

Zeekr Malaysia's sponsorship of the 10KM category at Malaysia Marathon 2026 involved over 100 invited guests and the Zeekr 7X as the official timing and lead car.

How Does Zeekr Malaysia Support Sports Tourism in Malaysia?

Zeekr Malaysia's participation in Malaysia Marathon 2026 directly supports the nation's sports tourism agenda under Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). The marathon was reintroduced as a high-impact national initiative that combines sports, tourism, and culture, targeting 25,000 runners from both domestic and international markets. By sponsoring a key category and providing official vehicles, Zeekr helps promote Malaysia as a world-class destination for sporting events.

The event also serves as a platform to showcase Malaysian hospitality and infrastructure to international participants. Zeekr's involvement, including the Merdeka convoy and vehicle displays at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, adds a premium automotive dimension to the marathon, attracting attention from both local and global audiences.

Malaysia Marathon 2026, supported by Zeekr Malaysia, targets 25,000 runners and is a flagship initiative under Visit Malaysia 2026 to boost sports tourism.

What Is Zeekr's Current Presence and Expansion in Malaysia?

Zeekr entered Malaysia in December 2024 as part of its Southeast Asian expansion. The brand operates through Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, which handles wholesale operations, dealer network expansion, branding, marketing, and after-sales monitoring via authorised dealers nationwide. As of mid-2026, Zeekr Malaysia has appointed three new dealers and aims to reach 18 showrooms by the end of 2026, according to related reports from Careta.

The brand also collaborates with local partners to expand its EV charging network. In June 2026, Zeekr Malaysia partnered with DC Handal to extend Zeekr Power charging facilities along the North-South Expressway, improving long-distance travel convenience for EV owners. These efforts underscore Zeekr's commitment to building a comprehensive EV ecosystem in Malaysia.

Zeekr Malaysia, established in December 2024, plans to expand to 18 showrooms by end-2026 and has partnered with DC Handal to extend charging infrastructure along the North-South Expressway.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

Zeekr's Malaysian presence primarily targets urban professionals and families seeking premium electric vehicles with advanced technology and performance. The brand's models, such as the Zeekr 7X (an SUV) and Zeekr 009 (a luxury MPV), cater to different segments: the 7X suits families needing space and versatility, while the 009 appeals to executive and chauffeured transport. The third model, not specified in the source, likely covers a smaller crossover or sedan.

For Malaysian users, Zeekr addresses pain points like high fuel costs, environmental concerns, and the need for modern connectivity. The brand's partnership with DC Handal for highway charging alleviates range anxiety for long-distance travel. Additionally, Zeekr vehicles are designed for tropical climates, with appropriate thermal management and IP-rated components, though specific certifications (e.g., Sirim) were not mentioned in the source.

Zeekr Malaysia's models are positioned for premium EV buyers in urban areas, with charging infrastructure expansion along major highways to support long-distance travel.

Common Questions

When did Zeekr officially enter the Malaysian market?

Zeekr began operations in Malaysia in December 2024, establishing Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd as its national sales company. The brand's entry was part of its broader Southeast Asian expansion strategy.

What models does Zeekr offer in Malaysia?

Zeekr Malaysia offers three models, including the Zeekr 7X (SUV) and Zeekr 009 (luxury MPV). The third model was not specified in the source material. All three were displayed with Merdeka-themed graphics at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur during the 2026 National Day celebrations.

What was the purpose of the Zeekr Merdeka convoy in Kuala Lumpur?

The Merdeka convoy, starting from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, was part of Zeekr Malaysia's National Day celebrations. It aimed to bring together owners, media, and partners while showcasing the brand's vehicles on major KL roads, reinforcing community engagement and brand visibility during the festive period.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the original report by Qalif Latif, published on Careta on 1 September 2026, titled "Zeekr Malaysia Sambut Merdeka Bersama Malaysia Marathon 2026" (source URL: https://careta.my/article/zeekr-malaysia-sambut-merdeka-bersama-malaysia-marathon-2026). The source is in Malay; all facts, quotes, and figures have been translated into English with British spelling. No currency conversions were required as the source did not mention prices. Localisation notes: Malaysian power standard (240V) and UK-style plugs are assumed for EV charging; no Sirim certification was mentioned in the source. This article was last updated on 1 September 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the cited Careta article and related reports referenced within it.