KUCHING: More than 1,400 participants gathered at SMK Sri Matang for the Matang Warrior 21KM Trail Run and Sarawak Scout Eco-Run 4.0, celebrating a day dedicated to fitness, environmental awareness, and community spirit on Sunday.
The event, which kicked off as early as 6 am, concluded with a lively lucky draw and prize presentation ceremony from 10.30 am to noon.
Captain Zainuddin Hamdan, honourary commissioner of Scouts, officiated at the ceremony on behalf of Datuk Mohamad Safri Abdillah, deputy president of the Sarawak Scout Council.
“Matang Warrior and Eco-Run are not just running events, but a platform to foster a healthy lifestyle, instil love for the environment, and strengthen community bonds,” Zainuddin said in his speech, reading greetings and apologies from Tan Sri Datuk Seri William Mawan Ikom, president of the Sarawak Scout Council, and Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, who were unable to attend due to official commitments.
A unique highlight this year was the simultaneous organisation of the event across all 16 scout districts throughout Sarawak on the same day, reflecting strong grassroots support for scouts’ efforts in promoting healthy outdoor activities.
Furthermore, three runners, Lua Kwan Hung, Yu Kwai Chun, and Yau Chung Yan, travelled from Hong Kong to join the race in Kuching.
In his remarks, Mohamad Safri lauded all participants.
“For us, everyone present today is a winner because you have supported a pure and meaningful mission,” he said.
He also proposed that the government consider setting up dedicated running routes to cater to the growing interest in recreational sports.
The Matang Warrior 21 KM men’s title went to Arikchely Ariyl Arikah, while Lim Siat Fah won the women’s category, both receiving RM1,000 and a trophy.
Rejeli Samar and Dazeree Joannos secured second place, earning RM750 each, while Tan Yian Wen and Fiffy Tiffney Rapieng took third place with RM550.
The fourth and fifth place winners took home RM350 and RM250, respectively, with five consolation prizes of RM200 each also awarded.
In the 12KM run, Sunny Jong Shi Xian and Cheryana Corey Chin claimed first place in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively, each receiving RM600 and a trophy.
Second place went to Lai Sze Yee and Lau Ngiik Ching, who each received a RM500 prize, while Mohamed Fuad Saini and Chai Shian Fung came in third, each winning RM400.
Fourth and fifth place finishers received RM300 and RM200, while five consolation prizes of RM150 were awarded.
