Nakawan Ultra 2026 to Promote Perlis's Natural Beauty and Tourism

The Nakawan Ultra 2026, a highly anticipated biennial event, is set to take place on December 12 in Perlis, Malaysia, promising participants a unique trail running experience within the Nakawan mountain range.

This third edition of Nakawan Ultra, a highlight on the national sports tourism calendar, offers an unparalleled trail running adventure through Malaysia's longest limestone mountain range, situated along the Malaysia-Thailand border. Under the theme ‘The Thrill of Northern Trails,’ the event transcends a mere ultra-marathon; it serves as a vital platform for promoting the natural splendor, cultural heritage, and tourism offerings of Perlis to a global audience.

The race routes will traverse forest trails, traditional villages, paddy fields, and limestone hills, presenting a formidable physical and mental challenge to test the endurance of every participant. Organizer Ku Hasrin Ku Abdul Rahman emphasized that Nakawan Ultra continues to embrace the 'runcation' concept, a blend of running and vacationing, allowing participants to immerse themselves in authentic tourism experiences while exploring Perlis's captivating destinations. For the 2026 edition, runners can choose from 50km, 30km, and 10km categories, open to participants of all age groups.

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The Thrill of Northern Trails

Ku Hasrin anticipates strong participation from both local and international runners eager to experience the distinctiveness of the Nakawan mountain range and the stunning panoramas that are the pride of Perlis. He noted that previous successful editions have demonstrated Nakawan Ultra's positive impact on the local economy through increased tourist arrivals, accommodation usage, and support for local services. The event, held every two years, has earned international acclaim, with Time Out Asia magazine recognizing it as the third most beautiful trail running route in Asia in April 2025, following events in Vietnam and Cambodia.

For the 2026 edition, Nakawan Ultra is also seeking international sanction and support. Ku Hasrin extended an invitation to running communities, outdoor enthusiasts, and tourists to join this extraordinary experience in northern Malaysia, solidifying Nakawan Ultra as a premier trail running destination. Furthermore, MEP21 in collaboration with Komuniti Wang Gunung has launched a new sports tourism theme for Perlis, 'Malaysia Northernmost Border Run,' focusing on international branding across three major events: Padang Besar Night Run (August 8, 2026), Nakawan Ultra (December 12, 2026), and Perlis Ultra Marathon (Putra) (October 9, 2027). This initiative aims to attract 5,000 domestic runners and over 500 international participants.

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