KUCHING: More than 4,200 runners from 20 countries are set to take part in the third edition of the Kuching Half Marathon Heritage Run (KHMHR) 2026, which will be held here on July 26.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the event, themed ‘Embrace the Legacy, Run the Journey’,” would further boost Kuching’s appeal as a heritage and sports tourism destination, especially as it coincides with the Kuching Food Festival.
He was speaking at a press conference organised by City Joggers Club (CJC) Kuching, held at Level 17, Baitulmakmur II here today.
Of the 4,200 registered participants, 2,940 are from Sarawak, 672 from West Malaysia, 420 from abroad and 168 from Sabah, with other entrants coming from 20 countries including Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, Kenya and the Philippines.
The event offers three categories: the 21-kilometre (km) and 10-km runs, both certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and a non-competitive 5-km fun run.
“So while running, you will be in a way promoting the various heritage buildings and heritage sites in and around Kuching,” Abdul Karim said, adding that the route would take runners past landmarks such as the Old Courthouse, Sikh Temple, Brooke Dockyard, and the Borneo Cultures Museum.
This year’s finisher medal and event T-shirt carry a ‘Postage Stamp Legacy’ theme, featuring motifs such as the Irrawaddy dolphin, the kapok tree, orchids and stained-glass elements inspired by St Peter’s Church at Jalan Padungan.
All participants will receive an event T-shirt, race bib with timing chip, e-certificate, finisher medal, and a woven bag, while 21-km finishers will also get a finisher T-shirt, with the top 100 receiving a special edition T-shirt.
A total of RM61,000 in cash prizes will be given out across the competitive categories. Race pack collection will be held at Pullman Hotel Kuching from July 24 to 25, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Abdul Karim said the event was expected to benefit the local hospitality and food and beverage sectors, with hotels, homestays and eateries around Kuching set to see a boost in business ahead of and during the run.
