SIBU: The Kemuyang Nature Challenge 2023 saw the participation of 300 individuals from across Malaysia.
Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Ministry (MYSED) Deputy Permanent Secretary Dolhadi Mazuki said out of the 300 participants of the event held at Kemuyang here today (Dec 16), 156 participants hailed from Sibu, the rest represented regions such as Kapit, Sarikei, Miri, Bintulu, Kuching, West Malaysia, and Sabah.
However, he said participants from China, the Philippines and Africa were unable to make it to the race due to unavoidable reasons.
“The objective of the programme is to strengthen physical and mental resilience to face challenges and trials to realise the government’s goal of encouraging youth to participate in healthy activities, enabling them to recognise their potential, foster competitiveness, and instil a spirit of progress.
“Additionally, the programme aims to cultivate a spirit of sports unity among the people; inculcate a sports culture among the population; contribute to the country’s economic development through the sports industry; as well as strengthen the structure of development and organisation of local, national, and international sports championships,” he said.
He made these remarks when officiating at the prize-giving ceremony for the challenge today (Dec 12).
Dolhadi also expressed hope for an even larger-scale Kemuyang Nature Challenge next year.
Four categories were contested, namely the 9km Men’s Open (Age 15-45), 9km Women’s Open (Age 15-45), 7km Men’s Close (Age 36-65), and 7km Women’s Close (Age 36-65).
The champion of the 9km Men’s Open (Age 15-45) category was Jetris Foo, while in second and third places were Lucas Wong and Betton, respectively.
For the 9km Women’s Open (Age 15-45) category, Lim Siet Fah won first place, while Teo Lian Geok was second and in third place was Yong Yee Ling.
Hardy emerged as the champion in the 7km Men’s Close (Age 36-65) category, while Tan Wee Mung was in second place. Third place was won by Chua Hau Ming.
For the 7km Women’s Close (Age 36-65) Category, Lim Se Hiang won first place, while Lee Leh Ha was second, and Jinah Nyanggin, third.
