KOTA KINABALU: The Danum Mountain Bike Race 2026 will debut next year on 14 February as an 88 kilometre gravel endurance challenge.
It is aimed at connecting cyclists with rainforest conservation while showcasing one of the world’s oldest ecosystems, said Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer Freddie Coleman during a press conference at a resort.
Themed “Wild Ride: Ride the Unseen Borneo”, the race offers riders a rare opportunity to experience the Class I Protected Rainforest of Danum Valley, an area typically restricted to researchers, conservationists, and limited guests, he said.
The event is designed to go beyond sport by creating a platform where adventure and conservation come together, he added.
“It offers riders rare access to Danum Valley, one of the most pristine rainforests on Earth.
“Funds raised will support orangutan behaviour and ecology research with the Japan Orangutan Research Centre, reforestation through the planting of native saplings sourced from INFAPRO, and bioacoustic monitoring and nocturnal mammal studies in the Danum Valley Conservation Area.
“This is real conservation work supported by data, research, and science,” said Freddie.
He said Borneo Rainforest Lodge is certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), while Danum Valley is undergoing GSTC Destination Certification, a step towards global recognition as a model of sustainable tourism.
Freddie thanked Innoprise Corporation Sdn Bhd and government agencies including Tourism Malaysia, Sabah Tourism Board, Lahad Datu District Office, Sabah Forestry Department, and the Danum Valley Management Committee for their support.
He also acknowledged early sponsors such as Smart Sabah Corporation, Khauf Engineering, Tanoa Enterprise, Sticky Rice Travel, Imago Shopping Mall, and Mee San Sdn Bhd.
Race Director Arthur Kimon said the event is open to mountain and gravel bike cyclists under the Open and Veteran categories, capped at 200 participants.
Prizes include RM1,500, RM1,200 and RM1,000 for the top three winners, with RM250 consolation prizes for fourth to tenth place.
Three participation packages are available, ranging from race entry only to 3D2N stays at Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
The race begins at W Bay Payang in Lahad Datu and continues through gravel terrain, forest edges, and into the 130 million year old rainforest before ending at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Race pack collection will take place on 13 February.
Registration is via Ticket2U. Early bird rates closed on 2 November 2025, and participant registration will close on 9 January 2026. For enquiries, contact 016-368 0640.-pr/BNN
