BY RASHEEQA BAHIDA & ELVINA TING
KUCHING: Sarawak is set to host one of the world’s largest international hashing gatherings after the Kuching City Hash Club successfully secured the bid to stage Interhash 2028.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said Kuching’s successful bid reflects growing international confidence in Sarawak’s ability to host major global events and deliver unique adventure tourism experiences.
The biennial event, scheduled from July 14 to 16, 2028, is expected to attract up to 4,000 Hash House Harriers participants from more than 50 countries and over 450 hash chapters worldwide.
“It is a very proud moment for Sarawak. This achievement proves that we are increasingly being recognised as a destination capable of delivering unique adventure experiences on a global scale,” he said during a press conference at Baitulmakmur II today.
Abdul Karim said the event is projected to generate approximately RM12 million in tourism receipts, benefiting the accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, retail, handicraft and community-based enterprise sectors.
He said the influx of international participants would also provide a significant boost to the state’s tourism industry as many participants are expected to extend their stay and travel to other destinations within Sarawak.
“The word ‘Borneo’ is very exotic to many people from Europe and other parts of the world. Many of them may bring their families and stay longer, which will definitely have a positive impact on our tourism industry,” he said.
The minister added that the two-year lead-up to the event would allow organisers to undertake comprehensive planning and international promotional activities to ensure its success.
Interhash 2028 will feature four running categories: the Ball Breaker Run (26 to 28 kilometres), Long Run (seven to 10 kilometres), Medium Run (five to seven kilometres) and Short Run (three to five kilometres).
In keeping with Interhash traditions, a Red Dress Charity Run will also be held a day before the main event, with proceeds going to local charitable causes.
Abdul Karim described the event as noble because it not only promotes healthy living and friendship but also contributes to the community through charitable activities.
He also pledged the full support of his ministry and its agencies to ensure the event’s success.
“Our goal is for every hasher who visits Sarawak to become a lifelong ambassador for our destination, sharing stories about our culture, food and what Sarawak has to offer,” he added.
