Conquer the wild: Mulu Eco Challenge 2026 puts Sarawak adventure tourism in the spotlight

Abdul Karim (centre) and others at the press conference on the Mulu Eco Challenge 2026 in BaitulMakmur Building in Petra Jaya on March 18, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, March 18: The rainforest will roar with endurance and adventure on March 29 as the third edition of the Mulu Eco Challenge 2026 makes its much-anticipated return, attracting around 100 athletes from 25 teams to the rugged landscapes of the world-famous Gunung Mulu National Park, one of Sarawak’s most treasured natural wonders.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah described the event as more than just a race, highlighting its key role in Sarawak’s long-term vision for adventure tourism.

“Sarawak is uniquely blessed, and at the heart of this experience is Gunung Mulu National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised among the most extraordinary natural landscapes globally.

“The Mulu Eco Challenge is not merely a race; it is an authentic eco-adventure journey. It showcases our rainforest, our rich biodiversity, and our unwavering commitment to conservation,” he said during a press conference on the event at the Ministry’s office in Baitulmakmur Building today.

The event is organised by Grit Event Management, with strong support from Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), AirBorneo as the official airline, and Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa as the official venue.

Participants from Brunei, Singapore, Sabah, and Peninsular Malaysia will push their limits through a 12km trail run and a 5km bamboo rafting challenge, navigating deep within the park’s rainforest and cave landscapes.

The challenge is also part of the Borneo Raft Safari initiative, which links river-based adventures such as the Padawan, Selangau, and Mukah Raft Safaris, creating a broader eco-adventure tourism circuit across Sarawak.

With a total prize pool of RM10,000, the Mulu Eco Challenge provides athletes with the opportunity to compete in high-profile eco-adventure events while experiencing Sarawak’s unique natural playground.

Abdul Karim said the programme aligns with the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), promoting sustainable economic growth, environmental stewardship, and high-impact tourism products.

He also noted that the event benefits the local economy by stimulating tourism, accommodation demand, and community participation.

“The Mulu Eco Challenge represents more than an event. It embodies our vision, our ambition, and our commitment,” he said, urging the public to experience the rainforest and heritage of Mulu.

Among those present at the press conference were Mulu assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala, MTCP deputy permanent secretary Julin Alen, Grit Event Management CEO Awang Saifeluddin, Sarawak Tourism Federation deputy president Datin Dona Drury Wee, and a representative from AirBorneo. — DayakDaily