News

Excitement surrounding Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) scaled new heights with a vibrant fashion show at the Klippa Shopping Centre in Penang’s Batu Kawan, Seberang Perai.

The 30-minute catwalk featured 12 models parading official PBIM running vests and finisher T-shirts designed by Emico in collaboration with Brooks.

The medals and accessories like tote bags were also on display.

The show brought together marathon and fashion lovers as well as key stakeholders in a dazzling display of style and athletic spirit.

Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, in his opening speech, recalled his own experience running the marathon on the iconic Penang Bridge.

“For me, running the marathon on Penang Bridge wasn’t just about crossing the finish line.

“It was about proving something to myself, about being part of a shared moment with so many others from different walks of life, all running for our own reasons.

“The significance of a marathon is not just about the race but a powerful journey of personal growth and unity.

“It is about the collective energy and sense of accomplishment when one manages to conquer South-East Asia’s longest bridge marathon alongside thousands of other runners,” he told the crowd before the start of the show.

Wong added that PBIM, set for Dec 15, had attracted over 20,000 participants from around the globe.

The runway event showcased lightweight and moisture-wicking apparel designed for marathon runners.

Each piece in the collection was made to enable the runners to perform at their best in tropical heat.

Wong described the apparel design theme as a reflection of athletes’ preparation that included hard work, goal-setting and motivating factors such as personal journeys.

The fashion show was made possible by title sponsor Aspen Klippa and supporting partners including Seiko, Emico, Teleperformance, Big & Caring Pharmacy, Counterpain, Star Media Group and Himalaya Sports.

As the models took the stage, excitement for the marathon continued to build.

With a few months left until race day, the fashion show set the tone for the endurance and unity that the marathon embodies.

Also present at the event were Paragon Vest Sdn Bhd managing director Tiew Cheng Tai, Emico Penang Sdn Bhd ecommerce and marketing manager Vincent Tan and Bandar Cassia Properties Sdn Bhd deputy commercial manager Jo Saw.

PBIM will be flagged off at Aspen Vision City in Batu Kawan and see runners crossing Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, making it the longest bridge marathon in the region.

To register for the full marathon, half marathon and 10km run, visit penangmarathon.gov.my

PRESS STATEMENT | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
7 OCTOBER 2022

George Town: The Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) 2022 organizing committee is teaming up with leading hospitals to offer health screening packages and medical forums for registered marathon runners.

PBIM Chairman, YB Yeoh Soon Hin said that the organizing committee is partnering with hospitals such as Sunway Medical Centre Penang to tailor health screening packages, medical forums, and running clinics for marathon runners.

“Sunway Medical Centre Penang is offering exclusive health screening packages for full marathon participants, such as complimentary ECG screening, blood tests and post-covid check-up at discounted rates.”

“Many of us might have avoided medical care during the pandemic because of concerns about COVID-19, and it is important for us to go for routine health checkups to make sure that we are physically fit before running a marathon,” he said.

Yeoh, who is also the State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy said that the PBIM organizing committee took the initiative to introduce health screening packages as the health and safety of marathon runners are of great significance for the sustainable development of the PBIM.

“We are taking a step ahead of marathon organizers in Malaysia to provide additional medical services that cater different needs because their health, safety and wellbeing is our top priority.”

He also encouraged runners to take advantage of the health screening services such as bone density tests offered by Island Hospital while runners from the southern side of Peninsular Malaysia can opt for comprehensive health screening package and sign up for Runner’s Medical Clinic at Subang Jaya Medical Centre.

“The PBIM organizing committee would like to thank all hospitals for coming forward to support the marathon event and we welcome hospitals all over Malaysia to partner with us so that our runners from all over can enjoy such privileges and help them get the most out of their marathon journey.”

Find out more about the health screening packages and medical forums by visiting the official website of the hospitals:

– Sunway Medical Centre Penang
For booking and enquiries please send a WhatsApp message at https://wa.link/byw2o8
– Subang Jaya Medical Centre
https://subangjayamedicalcentre.com/runner-health-screening-package
– Island Hospital
https://packages.islandhospital.com/

4 APRIL 2022 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RUNNER PRICING CHART

All runners need to be aged 18 and above as of 31 December 2022,

except for – Junior: 13 – 17 years old (as of 31 December 2022)

QUALIFYING TIME

Participants of all categories will be given finisher t-shirt (one per runner) if they complete the race within the qualifying time.

RACE KIT PHYSICAL COLLECTION

Free courier service of race kits will be provided to all runners residing in Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak. Runners are encouraged to select the free courier option and fill in a valid address that has an occupant(s) to pick-up the race kit upon delivery.

Courier of race kits to Singapore will incur a charge of RM60.

4 APRIL 2022 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

George Town – The highly anticipated and largest annual sports event in Northern Peninsular Malaysia – ‘Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM)’ makes a great comeback with a physical run after a 2-year hiatus.

PBIM Chairman, YB Yeoh Soon Hin today announced that the 2022’s edition of PBIM will take place on 11 December 2022 at the same venue since its inauguration – the Penang Bridge.

“For the past 2 years, PBIM adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic and turned virtual. While the initiative proved a tremendous success, we are absolutely delighted that the loosening of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) has allowed for the return of a physical marathon,” he said.

Yeoh, who is also the State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy anticipates this premier sporting event to continue its strong growth momentum and receive commendable participation, adding that the maximum capacity for 2022 is capped at 25,000 runners.

“I am certain that the pandemic has given birth to new and upcoming runners. These aspiring runners coupled with our loyal racers will make PBIM 2022 a one to remember,”

“Participants will once again be able to run through one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic bridges in display of strength and unity that also celebrates Penang’s resilience amid the global pandemic,” he added.

Apart from omitting the 5km fun run for better crowd control, the other race categories remain unchanged, comprising of Full Marathon (42km), Half Marathon (21km) and 10km Run (Open/Junior).

The early bird registration commences today (4 April) until 30 April, applicable for the first 5,000 runners regardless of categories, whichever that comes first.

While commenting about international participation, Yeoh said that foreign runners are welcomed but will be subjected to fulfill immigration clearance criteria(s) and arrival SOPs outlined by the relevant authorities.

“Runners who registered for PBIM 2020 will be automatically registered for PBIM 2022 without any extra charges as a gesture of appreciation for their continuous support,” Yeoh said in a press conference this morning.

Apart from the strong backing by its regular partners, PBIM 2022 also sees new sponsors joining the line-up such as Versa – Malaysia’s leading wealth management mobile application.

Versa Chief Operating Officer Richmond Yau announced that through this partnership, each Malaysian adult runner will receive a sign up bonus of RM20 with promo code VERSAPBIM20 and upon fulfilment of the terms and conditions at versa.com.my.

“Investing is just like running a marathon, it requires patience, determination and a long term vision. We’re glad that Versa can play a role in one of Malaysia’s largest sporting events,” Yau said.

On a separate note, Yeoh also announced that free courier service of race kits will be provided for all runners residing in Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak.

“Although we don’t encourage physical collection of race kits, it will still be available on late November and early December at Queensbay Mall,” he said.

For more details, please visit https://www.penangmarathon.gov.my/portal/

—

For media enquiries, please contact:

Bernard Loke

Special Officer to YB Yeoh Soon Hin

Penang State Executive Councillor’s Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE)

Office: +604 – 650 5133

Email: bernardloke.yy@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             18 OCTOBER 2021

George Town – Marathoners craving for a race fix can start preparing for Penang Bridge International Marathon Virtual Run 2021 as registrations begin 22 October 2021, featuring brand-new challenges and conventional marathon categories.

Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Yeoh Soon Hin, who is also the chairman of PBIM said that the virtual run is complimentary for all and can accommodate runners from across the globe due to its virtual nature.

The race period will commence from 0000 (12am) of 21 November 2021 and end at 2359 (11.59pm) of 20 December 2021 following GMT+8.

“PBIM’s virtual run in 2020 recorded participants from more than 70 countries. We want to continue this commendable momentum, so we have introduced brand-new challenge categories to encourage participation and sportsmanship, on top of adding excitement to the annual event” he added.

He said that the new challenge categories introduced are:

1. 5 Largest Marathon Teams – Minimum of 10 members per team
   1. The 5 largest teams in terms of member size (pax) will be awarded with a trophy. Every team member must clock in a minimum of 5KM in one single activity. Each team member must be 13 years old and above.

2. 10 Highest Mileage Runners – Male and Female Category
   1. 10 runners of each gender, with the highest mileage within the race period will be awarded with a special achievement medal.

3. First 10 runners to achieve 100KM, 300KM and 500KM – Male and Female Category
   1. First 10 runners of each gender to clock in 100KM, 300KM and 500KM respectively, will be awarded with a special achievement medal. Repeated winners are allowed (Eg, a runner can win the 100KM, 300KM and 500KM simultaneously).

He also said the three conventional categories carry on as usual, which are the 10km, 21km (Half Marathon) and 42km (Full Marathon) with the addition of a 5KM fun run.

“Although there are no race packs or finisher medals, but the participants would be eligible for the e-certificate if they manage to complete the race within the respective qualifying time of 1 hour 15 minutes (5KM), 2 hours (10km), 3.5hours (Half Marathon) and 7 hours (Full Marathon),” he added.

The PBIM2021 Virtual Run is themed #ARunTowardsNormalcy to remind runners and participants that we are still waging the global Covid-19 pandemic with hopes that normalcy will be reverted as soon as possible.

“I hope that PBIM will be the beacon of hope to inspire everyone that a better future awaits,” he added.

As per the usual PBIM, Yeoh said there is an age limit for participation namely: 13 years old and above for the 5KM fun run; 13 years old and above (10KM); and 18 years old and above (21KM and 42KM).

Yeoh reminded that registrations for PBIM2020’s physical run would still be automatically brought forward to PBIM2022 which its dates will be advised accordingly.

“As usual, runners must complete their registration and connect one tracking app or GPS wearables to Biib, and ensure that the tracking app, which has been successfully synced, is turned on before the run to record the distance.

He also emphasized that runners who are interested to join both, the speed and distance categories must register for two events, separately.

Special mementos and merchandises will also be released by Brooks and Emico to commemorate PBIM’s second edition of virtual run, which will be available for purchase at PBIM website.

Latest updates of the race are available at Penang Bridge International Marathon Facebook page (@penangbridgemarathon).

For more information, runners can also visit www.penangmarathon.gov.my or email info@penangmarathon.gov.my or call 04-650 5133.

For immediate release

Sept 29, 2020

PBIM2020 VIRTUAL RUN REGISTRATION BEGINS THIS OCT 1

GEORGE TOWN, PENANG – The registration for Penang Bridge International Marathon’s inaugural virtual run begins this Oct 1.

The PBIM2020 Virtual Run #PBIMVR #runningagainstCovid19 will be taking place virtually where runners can join in from various destinations around the world through running apps.

Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Yeoh Soon Hin, who is also the PBIM chairman, said registration for the run this year is free for all.

He said the three categories remains the same with 10km, 21km (Half Marathon) and 42km (Full Marathon). Although there are no race packs or finisher medals, but the participants would be eligible for the e-certificate if they manage to complete the race within the respective qualifying time of 2 hours (10km), 3.5hours (Half Marathon) and 7 hours (Full Marathon).

In addition to the three categories, he said PBIM virtual run is also introducing a 5km (Fun Run) for participants aged 12 and above to encourage familial participation, adding that the qualifying time for the 5km fun run is 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is also to encourage and provide a platform for new runners to join PBIM.

As per the usual PBIM, he said there is an age limit for participation namely 16 years old and above for the 10km run, while participants must be 18 and above for participation in the Half Marathon (21km) and Full Marathon (42km) categories.

Yeoh said the virtual run this year offers a new form of flexibility for runners whereby one runner could participate in all categories, as long as they could complete the runs within the 48 hours duration.

In order to allow global runners to complete the challenges, he said the 48 hours starts from 00:00 (12am) of Nov 21 and ends 23:59 (11.59pm) of Nov 22 following Malaysia time zone (GMT+8).

“Join us for this unique PBIM virtual run experience. We are thankful that we have many PBIM runners who have stayed with us over the years. This is a way for us to encourage them to continue this year with us, wherever they are as travelling distances will no longer become a limitation.

“Instead, this marathon will have a different way to connect with marathoners from different parts of the world all united by the spirit of sportsmanship even amid this pandemic, hence the #PBIMVR #runningagainstCovid19,” said Yeoh.

He said there will be various workshops, talks and activities organised virtually to build up the anticipation and excitement for the actual event.

However, he reminded that one participant is only allowed to register one time for the same category.

He said registration is open for a month until Oct 31 at 11:59pm. That aside, he said runners who have registered for PBIM2020 earlier would need to re-register for the virtual run for the virtual run bib number.

He said runners will need to complete their registration and connect one tracking app or GPS wearables to MyVRace by Sport Heroes and ensure that the tracking app, which has been successfully synced, is turned on before the run to record the distance.

“More importantly, I would like to remind everyone to stay safe and not forgo the necessary health protocols as well as precautions during Covid-19 in order to keep safe even though you may be running in the vicinity of your neighborhood,” said Yeoh.

He said that this year they are releasing special mementos and merchandises from Brooks and Emico to commemorate the first virtual run for this year.

At the same time, he said the registrations of those who have registered for PBIM2020 would be automatically brought forward to PBIM2021.

Although there are no refunds, the registrations would be transferable for those who are unable to make it for PBIM2021.

He added that date for PBIM2021 would be announced January next year once it is confirmed in view of the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Kindly refer to the latest updates in Penang Bridge International Marathon Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/penangbridgemarathon.

————————————————–end———————————————————

For immediate release

Sept 1, 2020

PENANG BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON TURNS VIRTUAL

GEORGE TOWN – Penang Bridge International Marathon 2020 will be going virtual this year with the hashtag #PBIMVR #runningagainstCovid19 in a global movement against Covid-19 pandemic.

Penang State EXCO for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage (PETACH) YB Yeoh Soon Hin said PBIM this year offers a different experience conducted through a virtual running app across the world.

“Basically, the starting point could be anywhere, and the run will be tracked through a running app where we can have runners join in from various destinations provided that they have access to GPS and internet.

“Over the years, the marathon has become a platform for the marathoners to connect with runners from all over the world, and this time would be no different.

“We believe that this will be a unique PBIM experience, as travelling distances will no longer become a limitation. Instead, we will see marathoners from different backgrounds and countries running for the same marathon from different parts of the world,” said Yeoh.

He said he has decided to make the participation for this virtual run free for all, so as not to disappoint the many runners who have been supporting Penang marathon for many years now.

“Even though marathons around the country and the world are either cancelled or postponed due to Covid-19, we wish to unify everyone participating in the virtual run a purpose – in solidarity against Covid-19 which is showcased this time through the spirit of sportsmanship.

“Beyond that, it is also a connection with people across the world who is facing a similar situation that we are running to campaign for the importance of safeguarding everyone against Covid-19 in the effort to defeat the pandemic which has taken so many casualties in the world,” he said.

He said the three categories remains the same with 10km, 21km (Half Marathon) and 42km (Full Marathon). There are no race packs or finisher medals, but the participants would be eligible for the e-certificate if they manage to complete the race within the respective qualifying time of 1.5hours, 3.5hours (Half Marathon) and 7 hours (Full Marathon).

He said runners have 48 hours to complete the run of their registered categories, starting 12am of Nov 21 and ends 11.59pm of Nov 22 following Malaysia time zone (GMT+8).

Yeoh said the virtual run also allows runners to join more than one category, as long as they could complete the runs within the 48 hours duration.

Yeoh said registration for PBIM virtual run begins this Oct 1, and the tracking app which is close to completion now will be available for download next month. Those who have registered for PBIM2020 earlier would need to re-register for the virtual run and will receive a bib number.

He said the orange wording for VirtualRun 2020 with the hashtags #PBIMVR and #RUNNINGAGAINSTCOVID19 is also inspired by Penang Goes Orange, which also falls in the month of November, which is a campaign against violence on women.

“Please stay tuned for our app launching soon, which could be downloaded off App Store and Apple Store free of charge.

“More importantly, I would like to remind everyone not to forgo the necessary precautions during Covid-19 in order to keep safe even though you may be running in the vicinity of your neighborhood,” said Yeoh.

At the same time, he said the registrations of those who have registered for PBIM2020 would be automatically brought forward to PBIM2021.

Although there are no refunds, the registrations would be transferable for those who are unable to make it for PBIM2021.

He added that date for PBIM2021 would be announced January next year once it is confirmed in view of the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Kindly refer to the latest updates in Penang Bridge International Marathon Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/penangbridgemarathon.

RATIONALE FOR NEW TAGLINE

• To make Penang Bridge International Marathon the Most Anticipated Marathon Event in Asia.
• Penang Bridge International Marathon is without a doubt a unique marathon with almost half the race ran on Penang Bridge.
• PETACH’s vision is to make Penang Bridge International Marathon into a major event in this part of the world (Asia), to attract the world’s best marathon runners to Penang annually.
• With the re-branding, this event is being evolved into “The Asian Challenge” and is poised to become a highlight in the international sports calendar. The focus will be to make Penang Bridge International Marathon into an internationally acknowledged marathon run which would be accredited by Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) label.
• PETACH’s goal is to bring positive changes and value to the event and raise its brand image to the likes of New York, Boston, London, and Tokyo Marathons.

RATIONALE FOR NEW LOGO

• Refreshed, simple and clear for a powerful message to visualise energy
• The primarily blue composition symbolises the water element, where Penang is poised strategically at the Strait of Malacca. By highlighting the use of waves, it is a symbolic representation of PBIM as one of the unique marathons on bridge run over water.
• The vibrant colours of the ‘marathon’ also mirrors Penang’s identity as a destination for the sea, sun, nature and culture – bringing about a splash of colours for Penang’s unique and vibrant mix of cultures and diversity.
• The facelift is a change accompanied by the evolving branding and identity of PBIM to bring about a special focus and attention to the logo which portrays PBIM’s identity as an international sporting event while celebrating the diverse background of the participants.

For immediate release
March 6, 2020

THE LAUNCHING OF NEW LOGO FOR
PENANG BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2020 (PBIM 2020)

 GEORGETOWN – The much-anticipated Penang Bridge International Marathon 2020 returns with a refreshed brand identity with the launching of its new logo at Queensbay Mall in Penang today.

The new logo reflects the ongoing effort by the Penang State Government through Penang State EXCO for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage Office (PETACH) to continuously bring betterment and grow Penang’s iconic marathon.

PBIM is the largest mass-participation sporting event in Penang which has successfully attracted more than 20,000 runners from all over the world to race on the iconic bridge which links both island and mainland.

Penang State EXCO for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage Office (PETACH) YB Yeoh Soon Hin said the refreshed new logo is an initiative aligned with their commitment to attract the world’s best marathon runners to Penang and elevate it into a major event in the region.

Quoting Stephen Hawking who said “intelligence is the ability of change”, Yeoh said to improve, one must always embrace change, and to be perfect, one must constantly be in sync with changes that spearhead growth.

He said Penang Marathon was incepted as a Road Race (Esplanade to Gurney Drive) in the early 1980s, and has since evolved into the iconic Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM).

“We have come far since then, and we want to continue this journey to bring about positive changes for growth and improvement in this event to expand the branding further,” said Yeoh during the unveiling of the new logo today (March 6) ahead of the registration which begins Saturday (March 7).

Yeoh announced that the race, taking place on November 22 this year, comprises three categories namely Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10km Run.

He also announced that PBIM is continuing with the 10km run this year due to popular demand.

“We have decided to continue with 10km although we have previously announced that last year was the last time for 10km as we have received plenty of requests especially from new runners.

“We do not want to disappoint the new runners who have just entered the running scene and wishes to advance themselves through this platform. Hence, we decide to continue the category on a new route which spans along the coastal road.

“They will not be running on the bridge this year but on the new route as we have promised a better running experience for full and half marathoners this year through an unobstructed and conducive environment,” he said.

He said the re-branding exercise is an ongoing effort to continuously raise Penang Bridge International Marathon to a new level, a new standard, with a bespoke experience for Full Marathon and Half Marathon runners as well.

“We have also incorporated a refreshed route for Half Marathon covering two-thirds of Penang Bridge.

“With these changes, we hope the runners in all three events will have a better experience in their respective categories,” he said.

Details, visit https://www.penangmarathon.gov.my/portal/