The inaugural Rimbun International Sematan Run 2026 brought together more than 1,300 participants at Sematan Beach Park, putting the coastal district of Sarawak in the spotlight as a potential destination for sports tourism.
Held on 28 October 2026 in Lundu, the event received strong support from Sarawak’s Premier, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg, who attended as the Guest of Honour.
The successful gathering marked an important milestone for Sematan, combining the excitement of running with the opportunity to showcase the area’s scenic coastal landscape, promote tourism and support the local community.
Three Race Categories for Running Enthusiasts
The Rimbun International Sematan Run 2026 featured three race categories to accommodate runners with different fitness levels and running experience.
Participants could choose between the 21KM Run, 10KM Run and 5KM Fun Run, attracting running enthusiasts from across Sarawak and beyond.
The morning began with a warm-up session to get participants ready for the races. Adding to the energetic atmosphere was DJ Hush Mo’s “Running DJ” experience, bringing music and entertainment to the event.
The programme concluded with prize presentations for the respective race categories, followed by a grand prize lucky draw. One lucky participant walked away with a brand-new Proton e.MAS 5, adding an exciting highlight to the celebrations.
The event was also attended by YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy binti Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, and YB Haji Azizul Annuar Bin Pehin Sri Haji Adenan, ADUN N.3 Tanjong Datu.
Supporting Conservation and Local Healthcare
Beyond promoting an active lifestyle, the Rimbun International Sematan Run 2026 also demonstrated its commitment to giving back to the local community.
Rimbun Group Resources Berhad channelled financial contributions towards two important causes in the region.
The company contributed RM10,000 to the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to support conservation efforts. The contribution reflects the event’s wider vision of encouraging greater appreciation for the natural environment surrounding Sematan.
Another RM20,000 was donated to the Haemodialysis Unit at Lundu Hospital to support local healthcare services.
These contributions highlight how sporting events can create a positive impact beyond the finish line, bringing people together while helping address environmental and community needs.
Putting Sematan on the Sports Tourism Map
The inaugural event forms part of Rimbun Group Resources Berhad’s efforts to establish the Rimbun International Sematan Run as an annual sporting event.
With its coastal scenery and growing potential as a tourism destination, Sematan offers an attractive setting for running events that combine outdoor activities with opportunities to explore the local area.
By bringing together runners, visitors and community representatives, the event aims to increase awareness of Sematan while creating opportunities for local tourism and economic activity.
The combination of multiple race categories, entertainment and community contributions also demonstrates how sporting events can become meaningful platforms for promoting a destination.
As plans to establish the run as an annual fixture progress, the Rimbun International Sematan Run could help strengthen Sematan’s profile among running enthusiasts and travellers looking for new destinations in Sarawak.
With more than 1,300 participants taking part in its inaugural edition, the event has made a promising start in bringing sports, tourism and community support together along Sarawak’s scenic coast.
Stay connected with @sematanrun.my on social media for news on upcoming events and future announcements.
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