Tawau Half Marathon 2026

Tawau Half Marathon 2026 is the grand finale of the three-race Sabah East Coast Half Marathon Series, following the Kunak leg in June and Lahad Datu in September. The series has helped connect running communities across Sabah's east coast, and the Tawau finale brings the action to the Institute of Science & Management (ISM) on 13 December.

The headline 21K is promoted as the "Fun Hill" challenge. Its hilly character is a defining feature rather than a flat, fast-road format, giving experienced runners a test of pacing, climbing strength and endurance. The half marathon has a 4 hour 30 minute cut-off and is open from age 16, with Open and Veteran divisions; the Veteran division begins at age 41. A 5K Fun Run offers a more accessible option for participants aged 10 and above, with a 1 hour 30 minute cut-off.

Both races start and finish at ISM in Tawau. The 21K flags off at 5:15am, followed by the 5K at 6:00am. Organiser rules require participants to use their own assigned bib, and the 21K uses timing bibs. Runners using wheelchairs, blades or other assistive devices may participate, although they are not eligible for prizes.

The event is organised by Kelab Pelari Tawau (Tawau Runners), a local running club focused on long-distance and trail running. Current-edition reporting describes the Tawau race as the concluding event in a series designed to strengthen participation, sports tourism and running culture across Sabah's east coast.