MORE than 42 shuttle buses will be deployed across Penang to ferry runners for the upcoming Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) 2025, ensuring smooth and efficient transport for the sporting event on Dec 14.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the buses, which will operate across key routes on both the island and mainland, would not only provide convenient transport but also serve as “moving ambassadors” to promote the event.
“These buses will help build excitement and anticipation in the lead-up to the race. The bus wrap design reflects the vibrant energy and unity that PBIM represents,” he said at the unveiling of the official PBIM 2025 bus wrap at the Aspen office in Macalister Road today.
Wong said the shuttle buses will operate at 15-minute intervals starting from 10pm, ensuring timely and convenient transfers for runners heading to the marathon venue in Batu Kawan.
The pick-up points will be located at Queensbay, Komtar, Icon City, and Batu Kawan Stadium, providing easy access for participants heading to the starting point.
Wong noted the number of runners using the official shuttle service has increased from 3,234 last year to 4,402 this year, reflecting growing support for sustainable shared transport among participants.
“The Penang Bridge International Marathon has always been more than just a race. It is a celebration of energy, unity, and values that reflect not only the determination of our runners but also the character of Penang itself,” he said.
Wong also thanked event partners Aspen Group, IKEA, Klippa, and Proton, the 10km title sponsor, for their continued collaboration with the Penang government through his office.
As of now, Wong said PBIM 2025 has already drawn over 23,000 participants across all categories, making it one of the largest editions yet and a key highlight in Penang’s sports tourism calendar.
Meanwhile, Aspen Group co-founder and deputy executive chairman Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff said the unveiling of the PBIM bus wrap was a symbolic moment that showcased the excitement, energy, and unity the marathon brings to Penang.
“Through PBIM, we’re proud to collaborate with PETACE, IKEA, and Klippa in promoting a healthier, more connected Penang. The bus wrap is a creative way to keep the marathon spirit alive,” he said.
He added that two of the newly wrapped buses would travel across Penang in the coming weeks, inspiring runners and residents alike as the state counts down to the race.
Nazir also announced that Aspen will host the ‘Road to PBIM’ social run finale on Dec 13, featuring the Water Flip Series Challenge as a fun warm-up activity for participants.
On marathon day, Aspen will add to the festivities with interactive games, on-ground challenges, and prizes, including Juneyao Air tickets to Shanghai and Shokz headphones.
He said Aspen will also launch its Year-End Bonanza campaign, offering special incentives for first-time homebuyers and crossover promotions with brands such as Proton, as part of the company’s broader community engagement efforts.
The shuttle service will charge a RM17 fee (round trip) for runners from Penang island and RM6 (round trip) for those from the mainland.
For further information, visit [email protected]
Also present was Klippa Shopping Centre deputy commercial manager Jo Saw.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud