Malaysia's Penang marks International Women’s Day with a Give To Gain Fun Run

Imagine taking a dip with a refreshing sea view, while still focusing on staying active and healthy.

For those who enjoy an early morning workout in scenic surroundings, Malaysia's Andaman Island hosts a special International Women's Day (IWD) 2026 Give To Gain Fun Run.

Andaman Island in Penang is a newly developed 291-hectare reclaimed island located off the coast of Gurney Drive in George Town, Malaysia. The artificial island is mixed-use and features luxury residential properties, commercial centers, and waterfront amenities, designed to be a premier, sustainable, and walkable '15-minute city.' 

To mark IWD 2026, a special six kilometre Give To Gain Fun Run will begin and end at Straits Quay.

Members of the public, families, and running enthusiasts have been warmly invited to take part in the event.

Marking International Women’s Day through positive energy, healthy living, and vibrancy in Penang

Penang DAP Wanita, the women's wing of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) in Penang, Malaysia is organising the event. Penang DAP Wanita focuses on promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and community welfare within the state.

The event will be officiated by DAP National Wanita chief and national vice-chairman, Teo Nie Ching, who will flag off the run.

Penang DAP Wanita chief and Berapit assembly man, Heng Lee Lee, said the event marks the first running programme held at Andaman Island since its completion.

"Participants will start at Straits Quay, cross the newly built sea-crossing bridge into Andaman Island and return to the starting point. Along the route, runners will be treated to a fresh and unique perspective of Penang’s coastline, as well as its emerging urban landmarks," she said at a media conference held at Wisma DAP.

Penang DAP secretary, Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development and Tanjong MP, Penang DAP Wanita deputy chief,Datin Saw Bee Leng, Penang DAP Wanita treasurer Heng Yeh Shiuan, and organising chairperson Kimberly Chin were all present to support the event's launch.

Celebrating the value of women and affirming their contributions to society

"This is not merely a running event, but a community and family-oriented health carnival. More importantly, it reflects the core spirit of International Women’s Day by recognising the value of women and affirming their contributions to society," commented Heng.

To ensure a safe, comfortable and runner-friendly environment, the organisers will implement a full road closure within Andaman Island on the event day, creating a car-free route that allows participants to fully enjoy the running experience. The six kilometre fun run is suitable for participants of all ages, including women and men, senior citizens, youths and families. Through the event, participants can cultivate healthy lifestyle habits while strengthening family bonds and community interaction. Hopefully as a result of the event, more people will be encouraged to step outdoors, take better care of their physical health, and personally experience Penang’s evolving urban landscape.

Organisers are encouraging the public to seize this opportunity to register and celebrate International Women’s Day through positive energy and healthy living, while adding vibrancy to Penang.

The specific objectives of the International Women’s Day Run are as follows:

• To align with the global mission of International Women’s Day by promoting women’s health, wellness, and overall well-being through an inclusive and empowering running event.
• To encourage women of all ages and backgrounds to adopt active lifestyles, prioritise self-care, and recognise the importance of both physical and mental health.
• To celebrate women’s achievements and contributions across social, economic, and cultural spheres, providing a platform that showcases women’s strength, resilience, and spirit.
• To inspire individuals, communities, and organisations to take meaningful and concrete actions toward building a more inclusive and equitable society for women and girls.
• To contribute to the long-term goal of creating a gender-equal world where diversity is respected, differences are celebrated, and women are empowered to thrive.
• This meaningful run is held in conjunction with the 60th Anniversary of DAP, marking six decades of commitment to progress, equality, and community empowerment.

Details ahead of the event from DAP Wanita Pulau Pinang 槟州民主行动党妇女组 are at https://howei.com/event_details/internationalwomensdayrun2026