KUCHING: Sematan is strengthening its position as one of Sarawak’s emerging sports tourism destinations, with the inaugural Rimbun International Sematan Run 2026 expected to attract 2,000 participants when it takes place on September 6.
Tanjung Datu assemblyman, Azizul Annuar Adenan, said the event builds on the area’s growing reputation for hosting endurance sports, following the successful Borneo 100 Triathlon on June 21, which drew international participants to the event.
He said the back-to-back sporting events, together with the upcoming ‘Pesta Batang Kayan’, would further showcase Sematan as a suitable venue for major competitions while boosting the local tourism economy.
“For Sematan, this is not something unfamiliar because we have hosted events like this before.
“Last month, we successfully organised the Borneo 100 Triathlon involving swimming, cycling and running, with participations from international athletes.
“This run can become another signature sporting event for Sematan,” he said at a press conference here today.
Organised by the Rimbun Group, the run will feature three categories: 5km Fun Run, 10km competitive run, and the 21km half-marathon, with organisers targeting 2,000 participants.
Azizul welcomed the organiser’s decision to stage the event in Sematan, describing the area as one of southern Sarawak’s most recognised tourism destinations that continues to attract both local and international visitors.
Beyond promoting healthy lifestyles, he said the event would also contribute to the local economy through increased hotel bookings, food purchases, and business opportunities for local traders.
“When around 2,000 runners come, they won’t come alone. They will bring their families and supporters, so the actual number of visitors could be double or even triple,” he added.
Azizul expressed confidence that the run would receive strong public support before registration closes on August 1, noting that participants will compete for a total prize pool of RM40,000, and stand a chance to win a Proton e.MAS electric vehicle through a lucky draw, limited to participants only.
He said the state government fully supports sports events capable of attracting visitors while stimulating economic activity in rural areas.
