Kota Kinabalu: Sabah’s iconic Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon continues to pull in global attention, with data from travel platform Agoda showing a sharp rise in interest from regional travellers during the 32nd edition of the race held recently (Oct 19).
According to Agoda, South Korea, Singapore and China topped the list of countries showing the most interest in the high-altitude event, with searches for Kota Kinabalu rising 84 per cent among Singaporean users during the race period.
The surge highlights Sabah’s growing appeal as a sports and adventure destination, as the Climbathon, dubbed one of the world’s toughest mountain races, draws elite runners and thrill-seekers eager to conquer Malaysia’s highest peak.
Agoda’s latest figures also show that major sporting events nationwide, including the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon and Ironman 70.3 Langkawi, have helped fuel travel activity across Malaysia.
In Langkawi, the upcoming Ironman 70.3 triathlon on Nov 1 has already sparked strong international interest, led by South Korea (up 536pc) and Bangladesh (up 148pc), while the Kuala Lumpur Marathon earlier this month saw domestic searches jump 24pc year-on-year.
Agoda Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei Fabian Teja said sports events such as the Climbathon not only test endurance but also promote Malaysia’s natural beauty.
“Sporting events are much more than competitions. They inspire exploration and discovery.
“These occasions give travellers the opportunity to experience more of what Malaysia has to offer, from its islands and rainforests to its colourful cities,” he said.
The government recently announced a 50pc income tax exemption for private companies that organise international-level sports, tourism and cultural events under Budget 2026, aimed at boosting the nation’s sports tourism industry ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Sabah’s continued presence on the international sporting stage, led by flagship events like the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon, signals its potential to become a leading destination for adventure and eco-sports tourism in the region.
