SERIAN: The Serian Rafting Challenge celebrated its 11th edition with a record-breaking 700 participants, surpassing all previous years.
Serian MP Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, praised this year’s event, which saw 184 rafts join the challenge. He highlighted the diversity of participants from across Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur and Kelantan, and even noted an enthusiastic participant from Indonesia.
“Starting in 2012 with just 10 rafts, the Serian Rafting Challenge has grown immensely. This year’s record of 184 rafts and over 700 participants is a testament to its popularity,” he said during the award ceremony at Pasar Tebakang Cina today (Sept 9).
Last year, over 500 people tackled a tough 25-km route along the Batang Kayan and Batang Sadong Rivers, starting from Kampung Tema Mawang and ending at Kampung Tebakang Dayak.
Riot stressed that the event is not just about competition; it’s a personal challenge. This year, higher water levels made the conditions better. However, last year, some rafts faced challenges, with a few even breaking.
Riot thanked the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) and the local community for their unwavering support.
“The event has now evolved into a festival, highlighting the entrepreneurial flair of our locals with various stalls,” he said.
The competition had categories like men’s open, women’s open, youth open, and combined teams from government and tourism agencies. Prizes included cash awards ranging from RM1,500 to RM250 for top achievers and consolation prizes for those ranking fourth to tenth.
