KOTA KINABALU, September 17, 2026 – The Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 returns to Tawau Hills Park on 20 September 2026, bringing back several of last year’s top finishers to take on the challenging rainforest course, alongside a new 10km category designed to offer a more accessible experience for families and recreational runners.
Among those returning from the Tropical Rainforest Run 2025 are Men Open champion Sheron Sariman and third-place finisher Arikchely Ariyl Arikah, followed by Milton bin Amat (4th), Daved Simpat (5th), Jude Maikol (6th) and Oswald Maikol (7th).
The Women Open field will see the return of Kona@Lydia Binti Liau A Ken (3rd) and Mailin Salungin (4th), both moving up from last year’s Women Veteran category, alongside familiar Women Open finishers Lalitah Lintanga (5th), Satriana Sahilin (7th), Shamiera Auther (8th) and Sinapilin Sarawi (9th). Meanwhile, Raichin Sungkit (3rd) and Dennis Isika (4th) return to compete in the Men Veteran category.
As of present, more than 350 runners have registered, with strong participation from across Malaysia, including Sabah, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and several other states. The event will also welcome participants from Italy, Kenya, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia.
The 28-kilometre race takes runners along the Mount Lucia trail, with a total elevation gain of approximately 1,567 metres. Mount Lucia is one of three ancient volcanic peaks within Tawau Hills Park, alongside Mount Magdalena and Mount Maria, adding a distinctive natural feature to the running experience.
The newly introduced 10-kilometre category offers a more accessible and family-friendly experience at this year’s Tropical Rainforest Run. The scenic route takes participants through the park, reaching a high point of approximately 543 metres at Bombalai Peak. Designed for participants of different backgrounds and paces, the category allows families and recreational runners to experience the rainforest environment at a more leisurely pace.
Beyond the competition, the Tropical Rainforest Run aims to raise awareness of rainforest conservation while highlighting the remarkable biodiversity and natural heritage of Tawau Hills Park.
Sabah is home to the world’s tallest known tropical tree, while Tawau Hills Park itself is home to some of the world’s tallest tropical trees. Its rich rainforest ecosystem provides an important habitat for wildlife including Bornean gibbons, grey and red leaf monkeys, hornbills, civets, numerous bird species, frogs and other nocturnal wildlife, as well as a remarkable diversity of plant life.
Along the routes, participants may also encounter some of the park’s distinctive flora, including the Elephant’s Ear Orchid and Begonia lamriana.
YB Datuk Jafry Bin Hj Ariffin, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, said the Tropical Rainforest Run serves not only as a sporting event but also as an opportunity for people to appreciate Sabah’s natural environment.
“The Tropical Rainforest Run serves as a platform to encourage a healthier way of life within the community, giving participants the chance to truly value the rich natural resources that Sabah offers,” he said.
Members of the public are invited to Tawau Hills Park on 20 September 2026 to cheer on the runners and experience the excitement of the Tropical Rainforest Run amid the park’s rainforest setting. Visitors can also take the opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings and biodiversity of one of Sabah’s remarkable protected areas.
The Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah (KePKAS), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), Sabah Tourism Board (STB) and Tourism Malaysia. The event is organised by Sri Pelancongan Sabah, with Sabah Parks, Tawau Municipal Council and Tawau Runners Club as co-organisers.
For more information about this race, visit www.climbathon.com.my/tropical-rainforest-run-2026.
