Building on Zurich’s spirit of collaboration across Asia Pacific, Zurich Malaysia and Zurich Singapore have joined forces to support Project 1000.
Project 1000 is an ultra-marathon initiative led by Guinness World Record holder and endurance athlete Natalie Dau.
Together, they aim to power a movement that goes beyond endurance, driving meaningful impact across the region.
What started as a bold 1,000km solo run in 2024 has evolved into a movement that blends grit, purpose, and real community impact.
This Project 1000 goes beyond testing human limits; it turns every kilometre into meaningful change.
By raising funds and awareness for underserved children across Asia, the initiative empowers young lives through movement, confidence, and self-belief.
Breaking Records, Redefining Possibilities
This year, Natalie Dau raised the bar with her latest ultra-endurance challenge, “Breaking 8.”
She ran the entire length of Peninsular Malaysia in 6 days, 16 hours, and 37 minutes with averaged an impressive 105 kilometres each day throughout the challenge.
In doing so, she broke her own Guinness World Record for the fastest crossing of Peninsular Malaysia on foot. She had first set this record in 2024.
Her feat was timed in the lead-up to International Women’s Day. It stands as a bold celebration of strength, resilience, and women pushing boundaries.
A Movement Powered by Purpose
In 2026, Project 1000 partners with Cahaya Surya Bakti to support displaced families through protection, care, and opportunities.
Zurich Malaysia and Zurich Singapore have contributed SGD 10,000, reinforcing their shared commitment to uplifting communities across Southeast Asia.
As Junior Cho, Country CEO of Zurich Malaysia, puts it,
“We are honoured to champion Project 1000 and stand alongside Zurich Singapore in celebrating Natalie Dau’s remarkable achievement. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering women, driving sustainable change, and supporting communities across Southeast Asia. Together, we can make a greater difference and create a future filled with equality and opportunity.”
Liam Burrell, CEO Singapore & Head of Commercial Insurance, Asia, adds,
“We’re thrilled to support Natalie Dau’s Project 1000 with Zurich Malaysia. This collaboration goes beyond sponsorship; it underscores Zurich’s commitment to making a lasting difference in the communities we serve. By joining forces, we celebrate a remarkable individual’s record-breaking athletic milestone while helping to create lasting opportunities for communities across Southeast Asia.”
Zurich also invites employees, customers, and partners to join the cause through its Giving Opportunity, with donations matched by the Z Zurich Foundation (up to USD 10,000) until March 31, 2026, amplifying every contribution for maximum impact.
At its core, Project 1000 continues to champion a lifestyle of purpose—where athleticism meets advocacy, and every step helps unlock brighter futures for children across the region.
