SANDAKAN: The Elopura Marathon Sandakan (EMS) 2025 held recently returned stronger than ever this year, marking its largest edition to date with 3,000 runners from across Malaysia and abroad.
More than just a race, the 2025 event carried a meaningful message of support and awareness for the Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (MAPPAC), an NGO dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with life-limiting illnesses.
Organised by Persatuan Ortopedik Sandakan and Kinabalu Running Club, the marathon formed a key part of the Sabah Marathon Series 2025, alongside the Borneo International Marathon 2025 and the Tawau Marathon 2025.
According to Race Director Dr Timothy Cheng, this year’s Elopura Marathon represents more than a sporting event, it is a movement driven by compassion.
“With 3,000 runners rallying behind MAPPAC, we are showing that Sandakan stands united for children and families in need,” he said, expressing gratitude to all partners, volunteers and runners who helped make this the biggest and most meaningful edition yet.
Founded in 2018, MAPPAC plays a crucial national role in advancing paediatric palliative care, offering home visits, therapy services, psychosocial support, caregiver education and multidisciplinary care.
One of its major upcoming initiatives is the establishment of Sabah’s first Children’s Hospice, a landmark project expected to benefit families across the State.
The Elopura Marathon has rapidly grown into one of Sabah’s signature running events, drawing elite athletes, recreational runners and families alike.
This year’s categories ; Full Marathon (42km), Half Marathon (21km) and 10km saw enthusiastic participation, with the earliest flag-off taking place at 2am from the Sandakan Sports Complex.
Runners enjoyed scenic and historically significant routes, including St Michael’s Church, the Sandakan Heritage Trail and the iconic JCI Clock Tower, offering a unique connection to the cultural heartbeat of the city.
However, this year’s EMS faced several criticisms that went viral on social media, particularly regarding the provision of drinks and fruit at water stations. Some runners compared EMS water stations to those at the recent Tawau Marathon.
Timothy acknowledged that the organisers had received a number of complaints and said they were working to address and improve these areas.
Commenting on the issue, he explained that offering a wide range of food items at water stations carries risks, including food poisoning.
For that reason, the organisers provided only drinking water, isotonic drinks and bananas.
He added that compared to previous years, EMS 2025 did offer additional refreshments such as coconut water and ice cream at the finishing line.
He also said, the organiser received a positive feedback about the ‘surau’ provided to allow Muslim runners to perform their prayers.
In clarification on the sale of photographs, Timothy also refuted claims that the organisers profited from the sale of photographs taken during the event.
He clarified that the organising team had granted permission to 12 local photographers, allowing them to use the EMS platform to take and sell photos as a way to earn income.
The organisers only received a modest one percent from the overall earnings of the official EMS photographers.
However, there were several external photographers not using the EMS platform who sold their images independently, affecting the income of the 12 local photographers who were officially recognised.
Therefore, Timothy said the team appreciates all constructive input and criticism, and will use the feedback to ensure smoother and improved event management in future editions.
