Kangar:Thousands of people joined in celebrating the state-level National Sports Day (HSN) 2026, engaging in a variety of sports, fitness, and recreational activities designed to promote an active lifestyle.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the celebrations in Perak saw about 5,000 participants at the State Youth and Sports Complex. The event was officiated by Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah, representing Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. Activities included the 40-kilometre MADANI Fun Ride, a 5 km Malaysia Aktif Fun Run, and Malaysia Aktif Aerobics Variation, alongside booths for exhibitions, sports product sales, demonstrations, and family fitness promotions.
In Kelantan, State Secretary Datuk Dr Tengku Mohamed Faziharudean Tengku Feissal outlined that the celebrations featured activities such as running, cycling, taekwondo, and traditional sports, aiming to involve diverse participants. The running event recorded 2,000 registrations, while the state-level program targeted 7,000 participants overall. Kelantan aims to attract 327,000 participants for HSN programs throughout the state.
In Terengganu, around 2,000 people participated in the HSN 2026 celebration at Mesra Mall in Kemasik, Kemaman. The event, which included the Mesra Run 2.0 themed 'Sports and Artificial Intelligence Technology,' was officiated by Terengganu State Federal Development director Datuk Abdul Kahar Abdul Latif and attended by Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd CEO Francis Tan.
Meanwhile, in Perlis, more than 7,000 participants took part in celebrations held over two days at the Kangar Jaya Mall compound. Events included the MADANI Fun Run, MADANI Fun Walk, aerodance performances, rhythmic gymnastics competitions, jump rope, step board performances, and the Aerobikton Challenge Audioshow. Perlis State Secretary Datuk Noor Azman Abdul Rahman, who officiated the celebration, emphasized that HSN aims to integrate sports and fitness into everyday life. He also congratulated the Perlis contingents for their achievements at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) and Para SUKMA in Selangor.
Sabah's Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced a target of 651,610 participants for HSN celebrations by year-end. The program is set to expand to grassroots levels in Tuaran and five main zones Tawau, Sandakan, Beaufort, Kudat, and Keningau, to encourage broader public involvement. The state government is also reviewing proposals for initiatives to address healthcare challenges and foster a fit and active population.