Running a marathon is no small feat.
But running 21 kilometres while guiding a visually impaired friend hand in hand?
That’s true friendship, and Malaysians can’t stop talking about it.
A run that touched hearts
It all began during the Score Marathon 2025 held in Putrajaya last Sunday, where two runners stood out from the crowd, not for breaking any records, but for showing the world what real friendship looks like.
A now-viral video captured the emotional moment when Ammar Naim ran alongside his close friend Adry Fazmi, who is visually impaired.
The two were seen running hand in hand, with their wrists even tied together, as they took on the 21KM challenge side by side.
More than just a marathon
As the video circulated online, shared by TikTok user Aida Shafit, viewers were quick to notice something unique about the duo.
Aside from their physical connection, there was also a note pinned to their backs, a small but important detail that explained everything.
The note informed other participants that Adry is an OKU (Orang Kurang Upaya) with visual impairments.
This simple gesture wasn’t just a formality, it was a message of inclusion and a reminder that everyone deserves a chance to be part of the running community.
Running with trust
What made the moment even more powerful was how effortlessly Ammar guided Adry through the entire course.
From using a resistance band to signal direction changes, to communicating verbally with the help of Aida, every step was carried out with care and coordination.
It wasn’t just about finishing the race. It was about navigating every kilometre together, proof that with the right support system, no challenge is insurmountable.
A triumphant finish
Against all odds, the trio made it to the finish line, with Adry, Ammar, and Aida crossing together, grinning from ear to ear.
It was a deeply emotional moment, not only for them, but for everyone who witnessed it.
Their bond and teamwork sent a clear message: disability doesn’t define capability. And with friends like these, anything is possible.
“It feels like home”
Speaking to WeirdKaya, guide runner Ammar Naim shared the highs and lows of the journey.
The only real challenge was the hilly route, but guiding Adry was a breeze. He’s sharp and a natural. We trained together for this. Crossing the finish line with my best friend of 13 years was the most emotional moment of all.”
Ammar explained how they used a resistance band to stay connected and guide Adry through the route, with Aida flanking them for extra safety.
He also praised Adry’s fiancée, Alyaa, who helped prepare safety materials and cheered them on at the finish line.
Watching him push through the mental and physical challenges was incredibly inspiring. It reminded me why we do this, to build a more inclusive running community.”
When asked to describe his friendship with Adry in one sentence, Ammar said simply:
“It feels like home.”
“I wanted to reclaim my life”
For Adry, the marathon was more than just a run, it was a personal mission.
2024 didn’t go as planned. I missed a lot of milestones. So in 2025, I wanted to take on something real, something that could help me reset,” he said.
Inspired by Ammar’s casual mention of a previous marathon, Adry began training.
With support from Alyaa, his fiancée and training partner, and encouragement from Ammar and Aida, he eventually completed his first 10KM run and set his sights on the half marathon.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
Around the 15KM mark, my knee was in pain. I wanted to stop. But then I heard Alyaa’s voice, and everything came rushing back, why I started, who I was doing it for. That gave me the final push.”
He added with a laugh:
Also… we spent so much on Under Armour kits. I had to finish!”
‘We’ll show you how far we can go’
Adry also hopes their story will raise awareness about the challenges visually impaired runners face and the importance of trained guide runners.
Running without sight means putting full trust in someone else. It’s not just physical support, it’s emotional too. Guide runners are the real MVPs.”
He dreams of a future where more races in Malaysia welcome runners with disabilities, and where accessibility is the norm, not the exception.
“Give us the chance, and we’ll show you how far we can go.”
Watch the full video here:
