OVER 30 COUNTRIES TO JOIN POSITIVE ENERGY HALF MARATHON 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, March 4 (Bernama) -- More than 30 countries are expected to take part in the International Positive Energy Half Marathon & Sports Wellness Carnival 2026, which will be held at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil from May 15 to 17.

Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general (Promotions II) Samuel Lee Thai Hung said the marathon will showcase Malaysia’s potential as a destination for sports and wellness tourism.

“The organisers are targeting about 10,000 participants, with around 30 per cent expected to be international runners. This means roughly 3,000 foreign visitors will be coming to Malaysia for this event alone, contributing to the momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026.

“Events like this bring together international participants, local communities and government agencies to celebrate wellness, active lifestyles and positive energy,” he said after officiating the launch of the event here today.

Lee said the event also reflects strong collaboration between the public and private sectors in promoting sports, wellness and tourism.

Meanwhile, KL Wellness City executive director Datuk Seri Dr Vincent Tiew said the initiative reflects a broader mission to promote positive energy values, well-being and social unity.

“This launch represents more than just a marathon. It embodies our mission to promote positive energy values, well-being, moral upliftment and social unity while connecting the private sector, industry and government to create a holistic and energising experience for participants,” he said

The marathon, organised by KT Cyclone Sdn Bhd and KL Wellness City together with several partners,  including the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), will be held on the morning of May 17 and feature three race categories; the 21km half marathon, 10km run and a 5km fun run.

Among the expected guests of honour are the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The three-day carnival will also feature more than 300 wellness and sports exhibition booths, interactive workshops, public safety exhibitions, digital safety and cybersecurity awareness programmes, as well as Relay for Life activities including a torch relay, luminaria ceremony and celebrations for cancer survivors.

Visitors can also explore an outdoor food and beverage bazaar involving more than 200 halal and non-halal vendors, alongside the RichestLife Positive Energy Zone offering motivational activities, family bonding programmes and health education.

-- BERNAMA