KUCHING – The Kuching Marathon 2026 is expected to draw a record-breaking 16,000 participants when it returns for its 11th edition on 27 September, making it one of the largest running events in the region.
Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, announced that registrations have already surpassed 8,000 runners, with numbers projected to climb steadily in the months leading up to the race.
Last year’s edition attracted around 14,000 participants, nearly half of whom travelled from outside Kuching, underscoring the event’s growing international appeal.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Media Room, Abdul Karim expressed confidence that the marathon would exceed its target.
“To date, around 8,000 participants have already registered and I believe from now, in May, until September, they will easily surpass or even exceed the target of 16,000 participants, possibly attracting even more,” he said.
The Minister, who also oversees Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, highlighted the marathon’s role in boosting Sarawak’s tourism and local economy.
He noted that the event has become a model for mass participation sports, encouraging healthy lifestyles while generating significant benefits for hotels, restaurants and small businesses in Kuching.
This year’s marathon will feature a prize pool of RM125,000, with commemorative medals awarded to all finishers. Participants in the full marathon and half marathon categories will also receive exclusive finisher t-shirts.
Organisers are introducing a Premier Elite Marathoners initiative, which will recognise runners who successfully complete Sarawak’s three major marathons – Kuching, Miri and Bintulu – within the same calendar year.
The Kuching Marathon has steadily grown since its inception, attracting runners from across Malaysia and abroad.
Its scenic routes, which showcase Kuching’s cultural landmarks and vibrant cityscape, have helped cement its reputation as a premier sporting event in Southeast Asia.
Observers note that the marathon’s expansion reflects Sarawak’s broader ambition to position itself as a hub for sports tourism.
With increasing participation and international recognition, the event is expected to continue contributing to the state’s economic growth and cultural promotion.
As preparations intensify, organisers are working closely with local authorities to ensure smooth logistics, safety measures and community engagement.
The Kuching Marathon 2026 is anticipated not only to break participation records but also to further strengthen Sarawak’s standing as a destination for world-class sporting events.
