The third stage of the 18th Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) from Feb 21 to March 2 from Simpang Pulai to Cameron Highlands has been changed to from Sungai Siput to Cameron Highlands for safety reasons.

LTdL chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal said the change entailed increasing the distance by 4.8km far from the original distance of 140.7km.

"We decided to change the route as the original route was prone to landslides and we have agreed that if there is a threat of a natural disaster, we need to provide an alternative route," he told reporters after receiving a sponsorship for apparels and jackets from Figos Sdn Bhd at the National Aquatic
Centre in Bukit Jalil here today.

Emir said the LTdL organiser was also aware of flood-prone areas in the east coast of the peninsular.

Five Pro Teams are among 22 aho will participate in the 18th Le Tour de Langkawi.