Penang Bridge International Marathon 2026

The Penang Bridge International Marathon 2026 (PBIM) is one of Malaysia's best-known road races. It takes place in Penang, Malaysia, on 13 December 2026, with full marathon, half marathon and 10km categories. It is for runners of all levels, from first-timers to elite athletes, and for travellers who want to combine a race with a short break in Penang.

About the Penang Bridge International Marathon

The official website says the marathon is organised by the Penang State Tourism Development office and fully supported by the Penang State Government. It was first held in 1986 and is run on the Penang Bridge, which connects Penang Island to the mainland. The organiser describes it as the largest mass-participation sporting event in Penang.

At the official 2026 launch, reported by the Penang state government's news portal Buletin Mutiara, the organisers said they were targeting between 23,000 and 25,000 runners. They also said that from 2026 the race will be recognised within the Abbott World Marathon Majors framework, in addition to its certification by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

Two new elite categories, the Full Marathon Challenge and the Half Marathon Challenge, were also announced for 2026. These have stricter qualifying times and are aimed at high-performance runners. The race now starts on the mainland at Batu Kawan, which state leaders say has improved organisation and the experience for runners.

Penang Bridge International Marathon 2026 dates and venue

• Date: 13 December 2026
• Area: Batu Kawan, on the Penang mainland (Seberang Perai), with the course using the Penang Bridge
• State: Penang, Malaysia
• Categories: full marathon, half marathon and 10km

Buletin Mutiara reported that PBIM 2026 is set to take place on 13 December. Start times differ by category and are usually very early in the morning. Check the race programme on the official PBIM website before you plan transfers.

How to get to Penang for the Penang Bridge International Marathon

The nearest airport is Penang International Airport (PEN), on Penang Island. Many international travellers connect through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and take a domestic flight to Penang.

Batu Kawan is on the mainland side, so plan road transfers between the airport, the hotel and the race area. Because races start early, many runners prefer to stay near Batu Kawan or arrange a private transfer. Check the official entry requirements for Malaysia for each traveller.

Where to stay

Runners who want a short trip to the start can stay on the mainland around Batu Kawan or Seberang Perai. Travellers who want more sightseeing often choose George Town, Penang's historic city, known for heritage streets and food, and then transfer to the race area early on race morning.

The official site has a Hotels section, which is a good place to start. Race weekend brings many runners and their families to Penang, so book hotels near the race area early.

Planning a group trip to the Penang Bridge International Marathon

A group tour to the Penang Bridge International Marathon works well as a two- or three-night package. Tips for agencies building a Penang Bridge International Marathon travel package:

• Registration: runners must register through the official channel. Confirm entries before confirming travel.
• Book early: secure flights and hotel rooms for the race weekend as soon as entries are confirmed.
• Transfers: include early-morning transfers to the start area, as public transport may not run at that time.
• Extras: add a George Town heritage walk or food tour for the day after the race.
• Supporters: offer simple sightseeing for family members who are not running.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Penang Bridge International Marathon 2026?

PBIM 2026 takes place on 13 December 2026, as announced at the official launch and reported by the Penang state government's news portal. Check the official site for start times for each category.

Where is the Penang Bridge International Marathon held?

The race is held in Penang, Malaysia. In recent years it has been based at Batu Kawan on the mainland, and the course uses the Penang Bridge, which links the island and the mainland.

How do I register for the Penang Bridge International Marathon?

Register only through the official PBIM website. Places and categories are set by the organiser, so confirm the registration status and rules on the official site before you sell a package.

What is the nearest airport to the Penang Bridge International Marathon?

The nearest airport is Penang International Airport (PEN). Many international travellers connect via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and then take a short domestic flight to Penang.

Is the Penang Bridge International Marathon open to international runners?

Yes. The race is an international marathon and welcomes runners from Malaysia and overseas. Runners must register through the official channel and meet the category rules.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Penang Bridge International Marathon 2026 in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.