The Kota Bharu Half Marathon, known locally as KBHM, has grown into one of the east coast’s well-regarded road races. As a World Athletics certified course, it draws serious runners chasing accurate times alongside first-timers taking on the distance, and the certification gives the event a credibility that brings entrants back year after year.
The flag-off comes before dawn, when the air over Kota Bharu is at its coolest, and the route carries runners through the city and past the landmarks of the old royal town. The early start, the calm streets, and the supportive local crowd make for a memorable morning of running in Kelantan.
Practical notes: Register in advance through the official channels. The pre-dawn flag-off means an early start, so plan transport and rest accordingly. Bring your own hydration plan and dress for warm, humid conditions once the sun is up.