SERIAN: A total of 445 local and international participants took part in the 6th edition of the Bung Sadung Climbathon Trail Challenge 2025.

The annual event, jointly organised by the Serian District Council (MDS) and the Kampung Bunga Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), features the challenge of climbing to the peak of Mount Sadung, 753 metres above sea level, through a physically and mentally demanding 7-kilometre (km) forest course.

For participants who intend to enjoy a relaxing experience, the 3KM Fun Hike category is also open to all ages.

This edition recorded an increase in participation compared to last year, indicating an increase in the community's interest in recreational sports.

More excitingly, a total cash prize of RM20,500 along with medals and trophies awaits the winners.

Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn described this Climbathon as an exercise in shaping a more disciplined and healthy young generation.

“This climb educates the younger generation to be more disciplined, optimistic and courageous in facing life’s challenges. At the same time, it strengthens friendships and forms a healthy lifestyle among our community,” he said during his speech at the opening ceremony of the event, here, on Sunday.

The Tarat Assemblyman also acknowledged the efforts of the organisers who provided stalls selling village produce and local products throughout the programme, which directly helped increase the income of the residents and promote Serian as an ecotourism destination.

Apart from that, this climbing challenge also highlighted new talents in extreme sports.

Among those who stole the spotlight were Arikchely Ariyl Arikah from Sabah who won the Open Men category, while Lim Siet Fah from Sarawak emerged as the Open Women category champion.

The Junior Boy category was dominated by a local, Fedderick Awal Saga from Sarawak, while Sharifah Rizqah Humaira Wan Hossin won the Junior Girl category.

Other winners included Samson Karega from Kenya (runner-up in the Open Men category), Joyce Ho Hie Knew (Veteran Women category), and Jasuel Lukim from Sarawak who was crowned the Senior Men category.

Also present were Member of Parliament for Puncak Borneo, Datuk Willie Mongin, MDS Chairman, Dato Peter Minos, Principal Assistant of the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP), Tracy Evon, Siburan District Officer, Ranum Bari, Serian District Officer, Inting Nyami and MDS Secretary, Tay Guan Huat. -UKASnews