Kota Kinabalu: The Borneo Safari International Offroad Challenge is set to roar back for its 33rd edition from Oct 26 to Nov 2, with organisers promising tougher routes, expanded international participation and stronger partnerships.
The Sabah Four Wheel Drive Association (SFWDA) on Tuesday announced the continuation of its long-standing collaboration with UMW Grantt International Sdn Bhd, which returns as Platinum Sponsor and official lubricant for the ninth consecutive year.
The agreement was formalised at a Letter of Agreement (LoA) signing ceremony between SFWDA President and Borneo Safari Event Director Faez Nordin and UMW Grantt International General Manager Iskandar Mohamed Salleh.
Faez described the Borneo Safari as more than just an offroad challenge, but a symbol of resilience and camaraderie.
“The Borneo Safari is not just any event, it is a testament to the spirit of adventure, teamwork, and resilience.
”Over the years, it has become an iconic event that draws offroad enthusiasts from locally and across the globe, challenging both man and machine against the rugged and untamed landscapes of Borneo,” he said.
“UMW Grantt International, with its reputation for producing high-quality lubricants that endure the harshest conditions, is the perfect partner for an event of this magnitude.
“The Borneo Safari is not just a test of driving skill but also a test of endurance for our vehicles. We trust that with UMW Grantt Lubricants, our engines will be well-protected, ensuring peak performance as we navigate through the challenging terrains of Sabah. It is a bonus this year to have Grantt’s Marketing Team join us as participants in the jungle,” he said.
The 33rd Borneo Safari will see around 500 vehicles and 2,000 participants from across Malaysia and international teams representing Hong Kong, Russia, the USA, the Philippines, the UK, Brunei, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia and India.
Among the newcomers is Team Matrock from Kuala Lumpur, who recently clinched first runner-up at the Kota Marudu 4x4 Challenge.
“It’s great to see Peninsula teams like Matrock bringing their energy here. Their strong performance shows the Safari continues to attract serious competitors who want to test themselves in Sabah’s toughest terrain,” said Faez.
He said this year’s edition will also feature new rules and more technical scoring systems to reflect advancements in vehicle technology, making the competition even more challenging.
Beyond the thrills, Iskandar reaffirmed UMW Grantt’s dedication to continue its community outreach and CSR programmes in Sabah, including tree planting, medical camps, school support, and restoration of community facilities and houses of worship in villages along the expedition route.
The event will be flagged off on Oct 26 from the Sabah Tourism Board Office at Gaya Street, drawing thousands of spectators in a festive atmosphere before participants head into the dense Sabah jungles via long-abandoned logging trails for eight days.
