KUALA LUMPUR – Middle-distance runner Kristian Tung is eyeing a place in the national Podium Programme after smashing a 40-year-old record in the United Kingdom on Wednesday.
The 21-year-old etched his name into Malaysian athletics history when he broke S. Muthiah’s men’s 3,000m national record at the British Milers Club meet in Tooting.
The Loughborough University student clocked 8:15.81, eclipsing Muthiah’s long-standing mark of 8:27.00 set in London back in 1985.
It capped a remarkable turnaround for Kristian, who began the year recovering from a shin stress fracture. In June, he posted a personal best of 3:52.43 in the 1,500m at the British Milers Club Grand Prix – the fastest by a Malaysian this year. Earlier this month, he also improved his 5,000m personal best to 14:15.85 in Wimbledon.
Already assured of a place at the Bangkok SEA Games under Category A (fully funded), Kristian now wants to take the next step.
“I’m really happy to set a new national record in the 3,000m – it’s my first senior record. My target now is definitely to medal at the SEA Games and earn a place in the national Podium Programme. Right now, I’m not part of any programme,” he told Scoop from the UK.
Kristian believes he is only just beginning to reach his potential, noting that most middle- and long-distance runners peak in their mid-to-late 20s.
“I think I can only get better. There’s still room for improvement, particularly in my mileage and aerobic strength. More importantly, I hope to secure sponsorships so I can focus fully on running, without distractions,” he said.
Kristian, who won three gold medals at the Sukma Games last year, will compete in a 10,000m road race in September before turning his attention to preparations for the SEA Games in December.
Asked whether he plans to train abroad long-term, Kristian replied: “It could be 50-50 between Malaysia and overseas. For now, I’ll be based here until I finish my studies.” – August 22, 2025