(From left) Hon Wai, Chow, Mirea, Nazir and Lim at the launch of the Penang International Bridge Marathon in Komtar. — KT GOH/The Star
Enhancements, including disability friendly initiatives and expanded rest area, will be made to improve race experience
SOME 25,000 participants from 64 countries are expected for the Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) on Dec 14.
This year’s race is set to receive more entries, surpassing the inaugural run’s record of 23,000 last year.
The expected surge underscores the growing enthusiasm for endurance sports.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said PBIM would be hosted for the second time at the Aspen Vision City in Batu Kawan.
“The venue selection highlights the area’s rapid development and Penang’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its position in international sports tourism.
“PBIM is more than just a marathon, it is a showcase of Penang’s progress, infrastructure and economic vibrancy.
“With world-class facilities, strong public-private partnerships and a focus on inclusivity, we are ensuring that PBIM continues to attract global attention.
“Beyond the race itself, PBIM is a significant economic driver for Penang, benefitting local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and transport services.
“The influx of runners and supporters reinforces sports tourism as a key pillar of the state’s economic strategy,” Chow said at the official launch in Komtar.
He said this year’s marathon would also build on its commitment to inclusivity, introducing more disability-friendly initiatives and enhancing support for visually-impaired runners, following the successful debut of a special category for them at last year’s race.
“Additionally, the event aims to inspire greater female participation, providing increased opportunities and visibility for women in sports.
“As we move forward, we continue to raise standards and set new benchmarks as PBIM is not just a race but a movement of resilience, unity and shared success,” he added.
PBIM, the longest bridge marathon in South-East Asia, remains one of the region’s most challenging races.
Held on the Penang Second Bridge, the course tests runners with strong crosswinds, elevation changes and the mental challenge of running through the night.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who was present at the launch, said this year’s PBIM would introduce several enhancements to improve the race experience.
“Among them is the Pen Zone system to ensure a smoother race logistics by grouping runners based on estimated finishing times.
“There will also be an expanded Decathlon Resting Area providing additional comfort for participants post-race, besides an upgraded entertainment lineup with live performances, fireworks and a more vibrant Runners’ Village at Batu Kawan,” Hon Wai added.
He said Star Media Group’s Suria and 988 radio stations would be partnering with the event for the first time.
Present at the press conference were Ikano Centres managing director Adrian Mirea, Aspen executive deputy chairman Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff and chief financial officer Lim Soo Aun as well as assemblymen Wong Yuee Harng (Pengkalan Kota), Connie Tan (Seri Delima), Goh Choon Aik (Bukit Tambun) and Chee Yeeh Keen (Bagan Jermal).
Hon Wai said that PBIM was a test of endurance, a celebration of sportsmanship and a reflection of Penang’s dedication to sports tourism.
“It will push the runners beyond their limits but they will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience,” he said, adding that registration for the marathon was still open.
