LAHAD DATU: The Danum Valley Mountain Bike Race programme will serve as a platform to attract domestic and international cycling enthusiasts while highlighting the State’s natural beauty.
The programme which is set to become an annual event is also expected to highlight the importance of environmental conservation to preserve our nature.
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Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the divine nature beauty of Danum Valley is an invaluable asset with strong potential that could strengthen our tourism sector.
He said the race is expected to become an annual programme that may attract more international participation in the years ahead.
“This is our first edition, and we hope more cyclists, will come to enjoy nature-based tourism in Danum Valley,” he said.
More than 90 cyclists took part in the inaugural 88-kilometre race organised by Borneo Rainforest Lodge in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Sabah Tourism Board, with participants coming from Thailand and other Asian countries.
Programme Director, Auther J Kimon said that many cyclists from outside of Sabah suggested that the opening promotion and registration to be open earlier to encourage a larger turnout.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge chief executive officer Freddie Coleman said such events may help to educate visitors and provide insight into one of the world’s oldest and largest forest conservation areas.
He said organisers have already begun working with event partners in Peninsular Malaysia, with hopes of increasing participation to between 400 and 500 riders in future editions through earlier promotion.
The event is seen as a promising addition to Sabah’s nature-based sports tourism, with the potential to attract both domestic and international visitors in the future.
