Langkawi Half Marathon draws over 2,600 runners

Over 2,600 enthusiastic marathon runners from 31 countries converged on Langkawi for the Langkawi International Half Marathon (LIHM) 2023 on Saturday.

This remarkable turnout underscores Langkawi’s emerging status as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts.

Organised for the second time by LADA in collaboration with the Langkawi Runners Association, the event aimed to revive tourism on the island while providing economic benefits to the local industry players.

Global runners flock to Langkawi

The LIHM 2023 witnessed an impressive participation of over 2,600 runners across three categories: the challenging 21km half marathon, the 10km, and the delightful 5km Fun Run.

The event, hosted for the second time by LADA and the Langkawi Runners Association, has become a beacon for running enthusiasts globally.

Notably, this year’s marathon boasted a distinctive route traversing the scenic paddy fields of Ulu Melaka, known as Mahsuri Rings, showcasing Langkawi’s natural beauty.

Furthermore, LIHM 2023 made history by commencing and concluding within the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), marking the first indoor start venue for a running event in Malaysia. The unique combination of challenging routes and picturesque landscapes contributed to the event’s success.

Langkawi’s rise as a sports tourism hub

Langkawi, renowned for hosting sports-based tourism events such as IRONMAN Malaysia, Langkawi Legendary Ride, and Langkawi Swimming Festival, continues to establish itself as a hub for global athletic competitions.

LIHM’s increasing participant numbers and diverse representation suggest its potential to become an annual flagship event for Langkawi. LADA played a crucial role in supporting the event, providing facilities and coordination to ensure its success, attracting 8,000 visitors to the island.

The collaborative efforts between LADA, event organisers, and other local agencies aim to position Langkawi as a world-class event destination, contributing to the island’s economic growth and enhancing its reputation in the global sports tourism arena.

Langkawi’s International Half Marathon 2023 not only set a new benchmark in global participation but also showcased the island’s scenic beauty through its unique routes. LADA’s ongoing support and coordination efforts during the event underscore the commitment to elevate Langkawi into a prominent sports tourism destination.

For more information, visit www.lada.gov.my or explore the island’s natural wonders at www.naturallylangkawi.my.