Tariku Abdi receives his winning prize from Asfia as Yakup (second right) and other guests look on.

BINTULU (Aug 3): The Bintulu Marathon 2025 wrapped up successfully this morning, attracting a record-breaking 8,951 runners from 21 countries, despite early morning rain before the flag-off.

Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) general manager Datu Muhamad Yakup Kari said the strong turnout of both local and international participants highlights Bintulu’s growing recognition as a premier venue for global sporting events.

“We are extremely proud of the overwhelming participation. The presence of runners from across the world shows that Bintulu is becoming known as an international sports destination,” he said during a press conference after the prize giving ceremony.

He noted that this year’s edition was particularly special due to the new marathon route, which included the recently inaugurated Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge.

“This route is one of a kind. For the first time, runners got to experience crossing the Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge, which was just launched on July 23 by the Premier of Sarawak. It offered breathtaking views of Sungai Kuala Kemena and the town, creating a memorable experience, especially for international runners,” he said.

He said that the organiser arranged for a kompang group to perform on the bridge to liven up the atmosphere for the runners.

Yakup emphasised that the Bintulu Marathon is not just a sporting event, but also a platform to promote tourism, local culture, and healthy lifestyles.

Kenya’s Alice Koigi receives her prize from Asfia  

To attract even more participants in future editions, he said the organiser plans to work closely with strategic partners to boost international promotion, improve race facilities, and introduce new categories tailored to various age groups.

“It benefits local tourism and the economy. Participants come with families, stay in hotels, dine at local eateries, and shop in Bintulu, all of which contribute to local growth,” he said, when elaborating on the economic impact of the event.

Yakup said the next Bintulu Marathon is scheduled for Aug 2, 2026, and he invited all runners, both beginners and seasoned athletes, to start preparing for next year’s event.

He also extended his gratitude to all involved in making this year’s marathon a success.

“My heartfelt thanks to the participants, volunteers, sponsors, government agencies, local authorities, and the people of Bintulu. Without your support, this achievement would not have been possible,” he said.

Also present to officiate at the prize giving ceremony were State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang.

In the headline-making 42KM Men Open race, Ethiopia’s Tariku Abdi clinched first place with an impressive time of 2:24:23. Following closely, Kenya’s Kennedy Lilan secured second place at 2:25:38, while fellow Kenyan, Joseph Mwangi Ngare completed the podium in third with a finish time of 2:28:01.

The 42KM National Men’s category winner Muhaizar Mohamad.

The veteran category also saw fierce competition among seasoned runners. Kenya’s Hosea Kogei clocked in at 2:30:20 to take the top spot, trailed by Samson Karege Kamau with a time of 2:33:46, and Martin Onesmus, who finished third at 2:35:39.

Over in the women’s divisions, the 42KM Women Open showcased an impressive lineup.

Kenya’s Alice Koigi led the race, finishing with a time of 2:54:33. Her compatriot, Purity Jelimo Serem, followed closely with a time of 2:59:39. Rounding out the top three was Yesheemebet Nguse, who secured her spot with a final time of 3:15:21.

The Women’s Veteran Category was equally competitive. Kenya’s Susan Jemutai Kosgei crossed the line at 2:59:39, closely followed by Mercy Jelimo Too at 3:08:19. Malaysia’s Tiffany Lee Siok Chin rounded out the top three with a time of 3:15:52.

In the national events, local talent was prominently featured. In the 42KM National Men’s category, Muhaizar Mohamad led the field with a time of 2:48:40., followed by Syahrullah Safri (2:49:14) and Fabian Osmond Daimon (3:15:07).

In the 42KM National Women’s category, Tiffany Lee Siok Chin claimed the first place with a time of 3:15:52, followed by Lim Set Hiang (3:42:50), and Natahsya Soon (3:48:29), who placed second and third respectively.

The 42KM National Women’s category winner Tiffany Lee Siok Chin