MTNU Run A Test Of Endurance, Compassion

By Anis Nabilla Md Wazilah

JERANTUT, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- The muddy trails and steep, slippery slopes proved to be more than just a physical challenge — they became the ultimate test of mental strength, perseverance and compassion for participants of the Malaysia-Taman Negara Ultra (MTNU) 2025 run here recently.

More than 1,200 runners from 15 countries gathered to conquer distances ranging from 15 to 100 kilometres. Yet, for many, the race, organised by Persatuan Rekreasi Taman Negara, was not merely about victory but about pushing personal limits and supporting fellow participants. 

As a first-time participant in the 15km category of the run, this writer initially felt nervous and soon faced tense moments navigating the muddy, downhill tracks, slipping and falling several times.

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In those trying moments, several officers from the Pahang Fire and Rescue Department, who were also participating in the event, stopped to offer a helping hand and words of encouragement when the writer was on the verge of giving up.

Despite their own exhaustion, they remained alert to their surroundings, never hesitating to help others in need, even sharing their water and snacks to ensure their fellow runners had the strength to continue.

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They refused to abandon the writer just to chase the “cut-off time”, choosing instead to prioritise teamwork and camaraderie.

One of the participants, public sector employee  Azmatun Semaun, 46, told Bernama her participation in the event, along with several friends, was a last-minute decision.

“I just wanted to fill my free time, but the muddy, steep and hilly route made it difficult for some of us to keep going. That’s when the support of friends became crucial. We encouraged one another while staying mentally strong to keep moving forward.

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“When you join an event like this, you truly realise your own limits — not only physically, but also in terms of mental strength and determination,” she said.

Meanwhile, the event director Rasdan Salleh said MTNU 2025 offered four race categories — 100 km, 50 km, 30 km and 15 km — attracting 1,216 participants from 15 countries including the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom.

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He added that the event, aimed at promoting Taman Negara as a prime destination for adventure sports, has been gaining popularity, with this year’s participation doubling compared to last year.

“My hope is for MTNU to become one of Pahang’s key events in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, and for the number of participants to reach 1,500 next year,” he said.

-- BERNAMA