THIS year’s Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) participants will receive premium-quality finisher shirts and medals in all categories, according to Wong Hon Wai.
The state tourism committee chairman said the Penang government wanted every finisher to receive memorabilia worthy of their effort.
“Finisher shirts and medals symbolise months of training, perseverance and the achievement of crossing the finish line.
“That is why we focused on quality and timeless designs that runners will still be proud to wear and display long after race day,” he said at the launch of the 2026 PBIM finisher shirts and medals.
Wong said the official shirt, produced with apparel partner Brooks Malaysia, was designed around three principles: premium quality, reliability and minimalist elegance.
He said the medals would be produced by official medal partner Emico Penang Sdn Bhd.
“Whether it is the full marathon, half marathon or 10km race, every finisher deserves recognition for their commitment and personal achievement,” he said.
Wong said PBIM has grown into one of Penang’s chief sporting events, drawing thousands of runners every December.
“They stay in hotels, dine at local eateries, visit attractions and support local businesses, generating economic activity.
“It showcases Penang’s ability to host a world-class international sporting event,” he added.
Wong said registrations have already exceeded 21,000, making it one of the strongest responses in the marathon’s history.
More than 5,000 runners have signed up for the full marathon, over 10,500 for the half marathon and more than 6,000 for the 10km race.
“Registration closes on Aug 31, so we encourage those interested not to wait until the last minute,” he said.
The marathon will be held at Aspen Vision City in Batu Kawan on Dec 13, featuring the full marathon (42km), half marathon (21km) and 10km categories.
Present at the launch were Aspen Group managing director Anilarasu Amaranazan, Klippa deputy commercial manager Jo Saw, IHH Healthcare Malaysia marketing head Khairul Annuar Yusof, Brooks Malaysia managing director Tiew Cheng Tai and Emico Holdings Bhd group managing director Francis Lim.
