MESRA RUN 2.0 attracted 2,000 participants on Oct 10, double the approximately 1,000 who took part in its inaugural edition last year, despite route changes due to hazy conditions.
Held at Mesra Mall in conjunction with the Terengganu-level National Sports Day (Hari Sukan Negara) 2026 celebrations, the event was organised in collaboration with the Terengganu Youth and Sports Department (JBSNT).
The run was the highlight of a three-day programme held from Oct 8 to 10, featuring recreational activities, competitive sports and e-sports.
Of the participants, 1,455 registered for the 5km fun run, while 545 signed up for the 10km category.
A 3km family walk, Berjalan Ria Madani, was also held.
However, due to hazy conditions on race day, organisers shortened the 10km route to 5km as a precaution against potential health risks associated with poor air quality. The prize arrangements remained unchanged.
Mesra Mall general manager Aziam Muhammad said the route adjustment had done little to dampen participants’ enthusiasm.
“The change did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd, which packed the entire outdoor area of Mesra Mall,” she said.
Aziam said the event also continued the mall’s mental health awareness campaign, which highlights the role of physical activity in supporting mental well-being.
She added that Mesra Mall aimed to serve not only as a shopping destination but also as a community hub for family leisure and recreational activities.
Beyond the run, the three-day programme featured 14 other sporting activities, including archery, badminton, netball, football, chess, darts, tenpin bowling and woodball.
Other activities included a pushbike race for children aged three to seven, drone sports training, a children’s colouring contest and the Sports Carnival Inspire OKU Active for persons with disabilities.
The Terengganu-level National Sports Day 2026 celebrations were officiated by Terengganu Federal Development director Datuk Abdul Kahar Abdul Latif.
In his speech, Abdul Kahar said the event aimed to encourage residents to make sports and fitness part of their daily routines.
“We want participation in sports to keep growing and active lifestyles to be sustained at all times,” he said.
Themed “Sports and Artificial Intelligence Technology”, this year’s National Sports Day also emphasised inclusive participation, including among senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd executive director and chief executive officer Francis Tan, whose company manages Mesra Mall, said the event brought the community together while supporting economic activity in Terengganu.
“Mesra Run is part of the national agenda, and hosting it at Mesra Mall brings people together to shop, spend time with one another and be part of a three-day celebration, which also contributes to the economy of Terengganu as a whole,” he said.
He added that the programme was designed to accommodate participants across different age groups and abilities while promoting physical and mental well-being.