Sarong, songs and steps: Over 2,500 join inaugural Malaysia Sarong Music Run

KUCHING, July 20: More than 2,500 participants donning colourful sarongs laced up their running shoes and hit the streets of Metrocity Matang yesterday evening (July 19) in the inaugural Malaysia Sarong Music Run (MSMR) 2025—a vibrant celebration of unity, heritage and healthy living in conjunction with Sarawak Day.

Making its debut in Sarawak, the cultural fun run blended traditional attire with energetic performances and carnival vibes, offering a unique experience that celebrated Malaysia’s rich diversity in motion.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was unable to attend the event and was represented by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who officiated the run.
In his speech, Abdul Karim described the event as more than just a run, saying it symbolised harmony among Malaysia’s multicultural society.

“When I arrived, I could see among you all the Malays, Chinese, Dayaks, Indians—everyone. This run is indeed a unity run that brings people closer together, especially here in Sarawak,” he said.

Abdul Karim also playfully advised older participants to pace themselves during the run.

“For the seniors, don’t run too fast. Take it slow—remember, the route is not that far. Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman (Tupong assemblyman) and I will also be joining, but only for three kilometres,” he joked.

This edition of MSMR 2025 is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) and organised by Malaysia Marathon, together with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), and LOCCO–the cultural powerhouse behind the iconic Keretapi Sarong movement.

Participants, dressed in sarongs, ran or walked through cultural checkpoints that showcased Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia’s rich heritage. Highlights included dragon and lion dances, gendang fusion, traditional dances by major ethnic groups, and stalls serving famous delicacies from across the country.

More than just a run, the event featured a mini carnival, local art showcases, creative vendors, family zones and live performances that transformed the venue into a festive cultural hub.

As part of the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), MSMR 2025 aims to promote heritage appreciation, inclusivity and community spirit among Malaysians and visitors alike.

The event was supported by a wide range of partners including TVS (official media partner), City Jogger’s Club, Checkpoint Spot, The Hills, ASICS, ERA Sarawak, and Sarawak Volunteers, among others.