Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 Crowns Champions Across 28KM and 10KM Categories

The Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 concluded with a strong showcase of trail-running talent, as runners took on the challenging rainforest terrain of Tawau Hills Park across the established 28KM categories and the newly introduced 10KM distance.

Malaysia’s Sheron Sariman successfully defended his Men’s Open title in the 28KM category, while Sinapilin Sarawi claimed the Women’s Open championship. Sapin@Sapirin Bin Sumping@Jemari emerged victorious in the Men’s Veteran category.

The inaugural 10KM category also produced its first champions, with Donal Ronaldi Lasius winning the Men’s Open title and Noor Arina Hamid taking the Women’s Open crown.

The 2026 edition attracted participants from Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Kenya, China, Hong Kong and Japan, reflecting the growing regional and international appeal of the trail-running event.

For defending champion Sheron Sariman, the victory came despite challenging preparation conditions caused by the severe haze in Sabah. He maintained his momentum through weekly easy runs and said he continued to enjoy the Tropical Rainforest Run, recommending the race to those new to trail running.

Women’s Open champion Sinapilin Sarawi highlighted the demanding nature of the rainforest trail, particularly the steep hills and exposed tree roots. Having participated in the event every year since its first edition, she expressed her intention to return again next year.

Meanwhile, Men’s Veteran champion Sapin@Sapirin Bin Sumping@Jemari secured the title after finishing second last year. His preparation included two to three months of training, with long-distance runs on hilly terrain. He described the downhill section towards the river as one of the most challenging parts of the course due to slippery conditions and numerous tree roots.

A True Rainforest Challenge

The 28KM course once again tested runners with a demanding route through the heart of Tawau Hills Park. Participants began with a steep ascent towards Mount Lucia before entering technical rainforest terrain featuring winding roots and shaded jungle trails.

Making its debut in 2026, the 10KM course provided a shorter option for runners, families, recreational participants and nature enthusiasts seeking to experience the rainforest landscape of Tawau Hills Park. The route reached approximately 543 metres at Bombalai Peak, adding a scenic yet active way to explore the protected natural environment.

The race was flagged off at 6:30am by YB Dr. Andi Md Shamsureezal Bin Mohd Sainal, Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah. Beyond competition, the event highlighted the role of outdoor sporting activities in encouraging appreciation of Sabah’s natural landscapes and protected areas.

Top 3 Results

28KM Men’s Open
1st — Sheron Sariman, Malaysia — 03:10.24
2nd — Milton bin Amat, Malaysia — 03:11.51
3rd — Oswald Maikol, Malaysia — 03:13.07

28KM Women’s Open
1st — Sinapilin Sarawi, Malaysia — 05:08.45
2nd — Satriana Sahirin, Malaysia — 05:09.53
3rd — Lalitah Binti Lintanga, Malaysia — 05:12.29

28KM Men’s Veteran
1st — Sapin@Sapirin Bin Sumping@Jemari, Malaysia — 03:24.28
2nd — Raichin Sungkit, Malaysia — 03:41.29
3rd — Dennis Isika, Kenya — 03:55.20

10KM Men’s Open
1st — Donal Ronaldi Lasius, Malaysia — 00:53.58
2nd — Aiman Haziq Bin Samry@Mohd Shamr, Malaysia — 00:59.05
3rd — Yusri Bin Bahari, Malaysia — 01:01.36

10KM Women’s Open
1st — Noor Arina Hamid, Malaysia — 01:20.34
2nd — Mailin Salungin, Malaysia — 01:23.58
3rd — Nursayfawati Foo, Malaysia — 01:27.40

International Trail Recognition

The 28KM course was recognised by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), with eligible participants awarded international trail points. This adds an internationally recognised dimension to the race for trail runners seeking recognised race credentials.

The Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 was organised by the Sabah Tourism Board through its subsidiary, Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd., with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah and Tourism Malaysia.

The event also received support from Sabah Parks, International Trail Running Association (ITRA), Tawau Municipal Council, SD Guthrie and Tawau Runner Club. The event committee included the Tawau District Police, Angkatan Pertahanan Awam Malaysia, Tawau Hospital and Radio Amatur Group, while sponsor partners included K2, Teck Guan and Calvary Crown.

With its combination of competitive trail running, rainforest adventure and nature appreciation, the Tropical Rainforest Run 2026 continues to position Tawau Hills Park as an active outdoor destination while bringing Sabah’s natural landscapes into the spotlight for runners from Malaysia and beyond.