Running along the coconut-fringed shores of Sabah—registration now open for the Borneo Marathon

By Li Xinyi | Compiled & Reported

 

The 5th Borneo International Marathon (BIM), hosted by Malaysia's Kota Kinabalu Running Club, will take place on May 6. This year’s route features a specially designed coastal track winding through Sabah’s swaying coconut palms. Runners will pass by the city of Kota Kinabalu’s iconic Floating Mosque, the historic Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, and the city’s oldest shopping destination, Wisma Merdeka. The course then follows a seaside highway where azure waters meet lush greenery, offering runners a chance to soak in the unique charm of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah.

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

However, as the race gained increasing recognition and popularity among marathoners globally, Andrew Voon tragically passed away unexpectedly during a training run on June 18, 2011. The news shocked and saddened runners worldwide. In his honor, the 5th Borneo International Marathon this year adopts the theme “Gone Running—Let’s Run!” aiming to rally more passionate runners globally. Beyond commemorating Andrew Voon’s contributions to the sport, the event hopes to inspire runners to celebrate their love for marathon running against Sabah’s stunning backdrop. Registration is open now and closes on March 15.

 

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

 

 

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