HSL Samarahan Marathon 2026 set for strong return with 2,000 runners on May 17

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By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, May 13: More than 2,000 runners are expected to take part in the fifth edition of the Hock Seng Lee (HSL) Samarahan Marathon 2026, which returns on May 17 at La Promenade Mall, despite the full marathon category being dropped due to ongoing Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) construction works in Samarahan.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the the event has grown into one of Samarahan’s key annual sporting fixtures, drawing strong participation and increasing tourism appeal from both local and international runners.

“The event enjoys support from partners such as Citadines Kuching and is promoted through the CapitaLand Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) platform. This gives it international visibility and helps position Samarahan within the regional sports tourism calendar.

“Congratulations to HSL for actively supporting local athletes, including some of Sarawak’s fastest runners,” he told a press conference held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex’s Media Room here today.

This year, the event has also partnered with Level Up Fitness, one of Malaysia’s leading fitness brands, adding a new interactive dimension to the participants’ experience.

The marathon will feature 10km, 6km and 3km categories, with runners expected from countries including South Korea and China, as well as several African nations.

Event coordinator Abraham Tiong said the removal of the full marathon category was necessary due to safety considerations arising from ongoing ART infrastructure works in Samarahan.

To further enhance safety, HSL is working closely with co-organisers City Jogger’s Club and the Malaysian Red Crescent. Improvements this year include roaming ambulances stationed along the route to ensure faster medical response, as well as additional cooling support such as ice packs for runners.

Ahead of race day, Level Up Fitness coaches will conduct hands-on functional fitness sessions and interactive games with prizes during race pack collection on May 15 and 16. The activities will be held at the ground floor of La Promenade Mall alongside a runners’ expo.

On race day, May 17, the coaches will also lead warm-up sessions from 3.30am to 6am.

Carrying the theme “Leading the Way to Healthy Living”, Abdul Karim said the Sarawak government, through his ministry, remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, tourism, and community wellbeing.

He added that Sarawak should continue to progress and excel in various fields, particularly in running and other sporting activities that encourage healthier living.

“Tourism and sports are highly competitive in today’s fast-changing world. They require passion, consistency, perseverance and collective effort from the community,” he said. — DayakDaily

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