TAMPARULI: The government encourages events that boost the local economy, with the Ruhiang Kiulu Adventure Challenge (Rukiac) 2026 held here on Saturday (March 29) highlighted as a platform that also promotes tourism and the area’s natural beauty along its 10-kilometre route.
Tuaran MP and Tamparuli assemblyman Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau said such initiatives support efforts to position Tamparuli as a one-stop centre for both local and international visitors, particularly those travelling between Kundasang and Kota Belud.
He said events of this nature are important in stimulating local economic activity while showcasing the district’s environmental appeal.
He also congratulated the organisers and participants for contributing to the promotion of sports tourism and the surrounding natural landscape.
Organising chairperson and Sabah Labuan Extreme Sports Fan Club president Steve Johnny Mositun said the programme attracted 450 participants, with the majority coming from outside the sub-district.
“Besides the main 10-kilometre run, this year’s event was enhanced with traditional sports activities such as slingshot and coconut bowling, which drew strong interest from participants and visitors,” he said.
“These activities not only created an authentic village atmosphere but also introduced elements of local cultural heritage to younger generations and visitors."
Steve said the event also featured traditional music performances by a local Tamparuli club, creating a relaxed and harmonious community atmosphere throughout the programme.
He said the run was divided into four categories, Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Men’s Veteran and Women’s Veteran, reflecting participation across different segments of society.
The Men’s Open category saw Arikchely Ariy Arikah emerge as champion, followed by Sheron Sariman in second place and Oswald Maikol in third.
In the Women’s Open category, Natahsya Soon secured first place, with Sinapilin Sarawi finishing second and Hyenie Roslin Danius third.
For the Men’s Veteran category, Sapirin Sumping took the top spot, ahead of Guianus Salagan in second and Jasuel Lukim in third.
Kona Liau won the Women’s Veteran category, followed by Epang Sarawi in second place and Felecia Sounam in third.
“The inclusion of traditional sports and local music performances provided a more holistic and unique experience for all attendees,” he said.
He added that the success of the programme was the result of close cooperation between government agencies, the local community, sponsors and volunteers.
The event was organised by the Sabah Labuan Extreme Sports Fan Club in collaboration with the Tamparuli Sub-district Office and Casero Events, with support from the Youth, Sport and Creative Economy Ministry, Sabah Tourism Board (STB) and other sponsors like Ararat Sports and Souvenir Sdn Bhd, Tamparuli Sticker and Etika Sdn Bhd.
