Horse racing has a long and distinguished heritage, dating back to the early 19th century. Originally established in 1896 as the Straits Racing Association (SRA) to regulate and oversee horse racing in both Singapore and Malaya, the organisation was later renamed as the Malayan Racing Association (MRA) in 1961. For more than a century, MRA played a pivotal role in uniting four prominent clubs, Penang Turf Club, Perak Turf Club, Selangor Turf Club, and Singapore Turf Club, under a single, consistent regulatory framework.

Historically, MRA will always stand as the unique racing authority to have regulated racing in two different countries. With the closure of the Singapore Turf Club in 2024 and the Penang Turf Club in 2025, MRA’s focus now lies entirely within Malaysia, ensuring the continued growth, integrity, and sustainability of the sport through the Perak and Selangor Turf Clubs.

The MRA aims to promote the interests of horse racing through the uniform application of its Rules of Racing, which are enforced fairly and firmly to uphold the spirit and professionalism of the sport. Today, MRA continues to promulgate the Rules of Racing, set the racing calendar, and administer registry and licensing matters within Malaysia.