KOTA KINABALU: Adventure events not only promote the beauty of rural areas in Sabah, but they also bring economic benefits to local communities.
Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said a few months ago, the prestigious Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon, an international race with about a thousand participants, was held in Kiulu.
And later between Nov 30 and Dec 1, the STB and the Kiulu Tourism Association will be organising the 5th Kiulu Adventure Challenge (KAC) in Kiulu town and the RS Kamandus View recreational park.
Joniston said these adventure events would undoubtedly bring economic spillover for local communities.
"Kiulu has become a popular venue for adventure runs and hiking. There are about 80 tour operators in Kiulu.
"Rural tourism has helped empower the economy of rural communities, with Kiulu earning up to RM50,000 a month," said the Kiulu assemblyman at the STB office here.
According to 2019 data, rural tourism in Kiulu had created more than 300 jobs and generated over RM2.27 million in revenue.
Regarding the KAC, Joniston said the event was being revived after it was last held in 2018.
Previously known as the Kiulu 4M Challenge, the revived version will feature two solo activities: 15km trail running and 30km mountain biking. Team categories include 30km cycling, 13km running and 3km rafting.
The event will also include a 5km fun run open to participants of all ages, ideal for families and casual runners.
Joniston, who is the Kiulu assemblyman, said the upcoming KAC would have a unique twist with a night market called "Malam Pesta Kiulu", featuring traditional games on the evening of Dec 1.
The night market will showcase a blend of glamping-style setups and traditional market ambiance, offering a variety of local street food, beverages, handmade crafts and live performances.
Traditional games, such as tug of war and coconut bowling, aim to celebrate Kiulu's cultural heritage while entertaining participants and spectators alike. Information and tickets are available at ticket2u.com.