KOTA KINABALU: After a five-year hiatus, a run among Malaysia’s tallest tropical forest trees is set to return at the Tawau Hills Park on Nov 26.
The Tropical Rainforest Run 2023 will take runners through a path of towering yellow meranti trees (Shorea faguetiana), which are renowned as among the world’s tallest tropical trees.
Tawau Hills Park hosts the nation’s second tallest yellow meranti, which stands at an impressive 99.2m as of 2019.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said organisers are expecting about 250 participants from Malaysia, Kenya, Australia, Canada, Japan, Indonesia and Singapore.
This is the race’s second edition after 2019 and Liew said she hopes it can be an annual event to raise awareness about rainforest conservation and to highlight the biodiversity in ecosystems such as Tawau Hills Park.
“To contribute to the preservation of the park, 10% of the running fees will be used to support conservation projects by Sabah Parks.
“This is more than just a race – it’s a way to inspire a healthier lifestyle in our community and a chance for participants to appreciate the amazing natural beauty Sabah is endowed with,” she added.
The event is co-sponsored by Sabah’s Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry, the federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, Sabah Tourism Board and Tourism Malaysia.
It is being co-organised by Sabah Parks, Tawau Municipal Council and the Tawau Runners Club together with partners Life Water Marketing Sdn Bhd, Borneo Royale Hotel, and PMG Pharmacy, Tawau.
Those keen to join the rainforest run can register at www.hellosabah.com.
