By JOHN TAMBANAN
KOTA KINABALU: The Borneo International Marathon is not merely a running event, it is a remarkable success story, said Minister of Sabah Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy, Datuk Haji Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan.
He said, the event which began in 2008 with just 529 participants marked the humble beginning of a journey that has since grown into Borneo’s biggest and most significant annual sporting event.
“Today, the marathon proudly attracts more than 10,000 participants from more than 50 countries, bringing together local and international runners, promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging youth participation, and generating meaningful economic impact through sports tourism for Sabah.
“I would like to congratulate Kinabalu Running Club for its consistency, professionalism, and dedication in organising this event for 16 years and counting.
“Your efforts have contributed significantly to nurturing a strong running culture and positioning Kota Kinabalu as a destination for major endurance events.
“Beyond sporting excellence, Kinabalu Running Club has also remained true to its charitable mission,” he said.
He said this when witnessing the Partnership Signing Ceremony between Kinabalu Running Club and Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad for the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon, covering the years 2026, 2027, and 2028, at Hyatt Centric, here yesterday.
Kinabalu Running Club was represented by its president, Datuk Dr Heng Ak Cheng while Alliance Bank Malahysia Berhd represented by its Group Stratergy and Transformation officer, Dr Aaron Sum Wei Wern.
Nizam said, this partnership represents more than a formal agreement. It reflects a shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community development, and he commended both parties for coming together with a long-term vision that will further strengthen Sabah’s position on the international sporting map.
Nizam said, since its inception, the Borneo International Marathon has served as a powerful platform for giving back to the community. To date, the event has raised over RM1.2 million to notable NGOs such as Special Olympics Sabah, Sabah Cheshire Home, Palliative Care Association Of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Parkinson Association and other charitable organisations and causes in Sabah.
“This commitment reflects the true spirit of sport as a force for positive social impact. At the same time, I commend Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad for its continued confidence in Sabah and its long-term commitment to the Borneo International Marathon,” he added.
Nizam said, a three-year partnership is a clear demonstration of trust, stability, and shared values, and it reflects the important role that the private sector plays in supporting sports development and community-based initiatives.
He said, from the perspective of the Ministry of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy, this collaboration aligns closely with our aspirations to empower youth through sports, encourage active and healthy lifestyles, develop sporting events that are professionally managed and internationally recognised and leverage sports as a driver for creative industries and sports tourism growth in Sabah.
Nizam said, partnerships such as this are essential in ensuring that our sporting events remain sustainable, innovative, and inclusive. When sports organisations, corporate partners, and the government work together, we create platforms that benefit not only athletes, but also volunteers, small businesses, creative talents, and the wider community.
“I am confident that through this renewed collaboration from 2026 to 2028, the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon will continue to raise its standards, attract greater international participation, and serve as a source of pride for the people of Sabah.
“I wish both parties every success in the years ahead and look forward to witnessing the continued growth and impact of the Borneo International Marathon,” he added.
Nizam (centre front row), taking a picture with Dr Heng, Dr Aaron and the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon organising committee members.
