By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 17: A total of 8,906 locals, non-Sarawakians, and foreigners have registered for the Kuching Marathon 2022 (KM2022), which will take place on Oct 2 at Padang Merdeka here.
This was revealed today by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, at the KM2022 press conference held in the Mulu Meeting Hall at the Bangunan Baitulmakmur II here.
“Of the 8,906 participants, 5,811 are Sarawakians, while the remaining 3,095 are non-Sarawakians and foreigners.
“It is encouraging to see the number of non-Sarawakians, including foreigners, who are taking part, as this helps the tourism industry,” Abdul Karim said.
In addition, he disclosed that 639 foreigners have registered, including 290 from Indonesia, 162 from Brunei, 105 from Singapore, 12 from the United Kingdom, seven from Kenya, six from Japan, 12 from China, and six from Hong Kong, among others.
He went on to say that the response to KM2022 has been overwhelming, noting that the previous Kuching Marathon, held in 2019, drew approximately 11,000 participants.
Abdul Karim, who is also the Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, noted that KM2022 will be in its 7th year since its inauguration in 2014.
“There will be four categories for the run, including a 42km full marathon, a 21km half marathon, a 10km run, and a 5km run.
“The 42km full marathon will be flagged off at 1am, the 21km half marathon at 4am, the 10km run at 5.30am, and the 5km run at 6.30am,” he explained.
He also announced that the finisher medal for the KM2022 will feature the facade of the Borneo Cultures Museum.
“This is a great way to promote Sarawak’s latest must-visit attraction. Every finisher will have a great piece of memorabilia for them to bring back,” he added. — DayakDaily
