The Borneo Marathon, where you can run along the coconut-fringed shores of Sabah, is now open for registration.

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

The 5th Borneo International Marathon (5th Borneo International Marathon, BIM), hosted by Malaysia's Kinabalu Running Club, will be held on May 6. This year’s route features a specially designed coastal section that winds along Sabah’s palm-shaded shoreline. Runners will pass by Kota Kinabalu’s iconic floating mosque, the historic Jesselton Port, and the city’s oldest shopping mall, Wisma Merdeka. The course then continues along a coastal road where azure waters meet lush greenery, allowing running enthusiasts to take in the distinctive sights of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah.

Sabah is Malaysia’s second-largest state. In 1984, it hosted its first marathon, the “Daily Express Sabah Marathon.” It wasn’t until 23 years later that Andrew Voon, a passionate marathon enthusiast, founded the “1st Borneo International Marathon,” inviting runners from around the world to join the event. Since 2008, the marathon has attracted thousands of participants each year.

However, as the race gained increasing attention and popularity among marathon runners worldwide, Andrew Voon tragically passed away unexpectedly during a training run on June 18, 2011. His sudden death shocked and saddened runners around the globe. Therefore, the theme of this year’s 5th Borneo International Marathon is “Gone Running – Let’s Run!” The organizers aim to encourage even more passionate runners to participate, not only to honor Andrew Voon’s contributions to the sport but also to let more marathon enthusiasts share their love for running amidst Sabah’s breathtaking scenery. Registration is open now and will close on March 15.

Official website of the 5th Borneo International Marathon: borneomarathon.com/bim/register

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