AdminMore than 2,200 competitive and recreational cyclists took part in the third edition of The Heritage Ride Taiping 2026, bringing participants of different ages and abilities to the historic town while highlighting its tourism attractions and natural surroundings.
Flagged off at Dataran Warisan Taiping, the cycling event featured routes passing through Sepetang, Simpang Empat and Kamunting, offering participants a combination of rural scenery and challenging terrain.
Organised under the initiative of Taiping MP Wong Kah Woh, the event was co-organised by Kelab Berbasikal Elit and Gosportz Sdn Bhd. It featured three categories: 90km and 65km competitive rides, as well as a 17km Fun Ride.
The competitive categories included Open, Master and Senior divisions, while the shorter route provided an option for recreational cyclists, families, teenagers and children.
Wong said the continued participation reflected the event’s growing appeal and provided an opportunity to introduce Taiping to visitors from other parts of the country.
“Taiping has much to offer, from its rich history and natural surroundings to the warmth of its people. Now in its third edition, The Heritage Ride Taiping has continued to receive support from cyclists, giving us an opportunity to showcase the town to more visitors.
“We also hope to encourage Malaysians, especially the younger generation, to discover Taiping’s attractions and appreciate what makes the town unique. I hope the event will continue to grow and bring more people to Taiping in the years ahead,” he said.
Cycling routes highlight Taiping’s attractions
Beyond the cycling competition, the event incorporated activities intended to encourage participants to explore local attractions.
In collaboration with Taiping Zoo, organisers offered 1,000 complimentary admission tickets to registered cyclists. All tickets were redeemed, indicating strong interest among participants in visiting the attraction.
Youth participation was another focus, with students aged seven to 17 eligible for free registration with support from the Education Ministry (MOE).
The event was also recognised as an approved programme under the ministry’s Pentaksiran Aktiviti Jasmani, Sukan dan Kokurikulum (PAJSK). Eligible students may have their participation considered as part of their school assessment, subject to the programme’s applicable requirements.
The initiative provides younger participants with an opportunity to take part in organised sporting activities while developing an interest in cycling and physical fitness.
Local performances and community activities
Dataran Warisan Taiping also served as a gathering point for participants, families and visitors, with food trucks, exhibitor booths, live performances and a lucky draw held alongside the cycling activities.
Cultural performances by local groups, including SJK(C) Yuk Kwan and Kumpulan Selendang Perak, featured dance and traditional drumming, adding a community element to the programme.
The event received support from the Taiping Municipal Council (MPT), Tourism Perak, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Larut, Matang and Selama District and Land Office, and the Education Ministry.
Organisers also welcomed several new sponsors this year, although details of their contributions and the event’s overall economic impact were not provided.
The third edition concluded with recognition for winners of the 90km and 65km competitive categories, alongside participants who completed the various routes.
With more than 2,200 cyclists taking part, the event continued to provide a platform for sporting participation while bringing visitors, local organisations and residents together.
Its future editions will offer further opportunities to connect cycling activities with Taiping’s heritage and tourism offerings.
Navin Kumar Perianen
Yalinie Mathan
CJMY
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