THE second Penang Bridge (Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge) will be temporarily closed from 11pm on Dec 14 until 10am on Dec 15 to facilitate the Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon 2024.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai announced the closure at a press conference at Komtar today. Scheduled for Dec 15 (Sunday), the marathon has attracted more than 22,000 participants from 65 countries and regions.
“The first Penang Bridge will remain open at all times. The public is advised to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid any inconvenience,” said Wong, who is also the organising chairman.
Wong shared that 92% of participants are Malaysians, while the remaining 8% are international runners. The top five countries with the most international entries are Indonesia, Singapore, China, the Philippines, and Thailand, while the top five states with local entries are Penang, Selangor, Kedah, Perak and Kuala Lumpur.
Of the total participants, 19.1 per cent will take part in the full marathon (42km), 42.2 per cent in the half marathon (21km) and 38.8 per cent in the 10km Run.
The race will start early due to Malaysia’s tropical climate: 1.30am for full marathon, 3.30am for half marathon and 6am for 10km Run.
“This event has evolved into one of the region’s most anticipated marathons. We are excited to welcome over 22,000 runners to the iconic second Penang Bridge, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year,” Wong said
“This year’s marathon offers a new experience, as it will start from Batu Kawan in Seberang Perai for the first time. When the second Penang Bridge opened in 2014, the marathon started at Batu Maung on Penang Island.
“It’s going to be a true celebration of endurance, sportsmanship, and global camaraderie, with each category promising to challenge and inspire runners while highlighting the beauty of Penang,” Wong added.
To set the mood for the marathon, Wong said his office, PETACE, will introduce Run Rev Carnival at Vervea Highstreet, Aspen Vision City, on Dec 14 from 6pm to 1am.
“This massive celebration will bring together fitness enthusiasts and anyone passionate about health and entertainment. It’s all about hyping up the energy ahead of race day,” Wong said.
Highlights include performances by popular acts such as Bunkface, Rabbit Mac, and Shawn Lee, as well as DJs Tick Lim and Blink. Cultural performances, including 12 Festive Drums, Multicultural Dances, and Borneo Dance, will showcase Penang’s rich heritage.
Music lovers are in for a live band performance treat from Somebody Who, whose energy is sure to light up the night. Radio DJs Lee Chan Hong and Cassey Soo (988), alongside Khai, Afiq, and Awien (Suria FM), will energise the crowd. A spectacular fireworks display will cap the evening, setting the stage for the marathon.
Participants will enjoy exclusive zones to relax, indulge in activities, and immerse themselves in the festive spirit. They also stand a chance to win exciting prizes in a lucky draw, including two cars (Myvi 1.3G ASA auto and Axia 1.0G) and three motorcycles (SM Sport 110E)
Wong thanked the title sponsors Aspen and Klippa, alongside other partners such as Big Pharmacy & Caring, Teleperformance, Seiko, Brooks, Himalaya Sports, N8 Sports Gel, Star Media Group, 988 and Suria FM, Decathlon, Island Hospital, Tesla, Counterpain, Emico, 100 Plus and Milo, Juneyao Airlines and Sunshine, for their support in making the marathon a global spectacle.
Also present at the press conference were state Traffic police chief Supt Zafri Zolkapli, Insp Muhaimin Rosli, Aspen Group managing director A. Anilarasu, Klippa assistant operations manager Ravi Kumar and race director Grace Teoh.
Participants and supporters are advised to park at Ikea or Batu Kawan Stadium. For more information, visit the official marathon website.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissa Thian