
By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, June 12: The Samarahan Bike Challenge (SBC) 2025 will return for its 9th edition on June 22, with two new race categories introduced to further promote inclusivity and talent development in Sarawak’s cycling scene.
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this year, organisers have added the Veteran (40 years and above) and Youth Women (15 years and below) categories, in response to increasing participation among senior cyclists and young female riders in previous editions.
“The Veteran category combines the previously separate Men’s Master A and Master B categories, while the Youth Women category has been introduced in response to the increased participation of young female riders in last year’s edition,” he said during a press conference held at Baitul Makmur 2 building here today.
In addition to the two new categories, the other events include Men’s Open (16 years and above), Sarawak Closed (16 years and above), Ladies’ Open (16 years and above), Junior (16 to 20 years), and Youth Men (15 years and below).
The SBC 2025 will flag off at 7am on June 22 at The Summer Shopping Mall, Kota Samarahan, with over 175 cyclists already signed up across the seven categories.
Abdul Karim mentioned that participants this year include competitors from Malaysia, Brunei, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the British Virgin Islands.
National cycling icon Anuar Manan will also be taking part, alongside teams such as ‘Kembar Melaka’, ‘Jupha Perlis’, ‘Elmi KL’, and ‘Team PDRM-G’.
Organised by the Samarahan District Office in collaboration with the Sarawak Cycling Association and supported by the ministry, the criterium-style race is one of Sarawak’s most anticipated annual cycling events, drawing both local and international riders.
A total of RM23,900 in prize money is up for grabs, with cash rewards for the top 10 winners in each category. First-place winners can walk away with up to RM1,500, depending on the category.
Abdul Karim also highlighted the event’s role in promoting sports tourism, noting that it contributes positively to the local economy through increased demand for homestays, budget hotels, transport services and eateries in Kota Samarahan.
Registration for SBC 2025 remains open, and more entries are expected in the lead-up to race day. — DayakDaily