A TOTAL of 2,500 participants are set to take part in the highly anticipated Penang River Run 2026 at Auto-City, Juru, tomorrow (Saturday, July 4), with all available participation slots fully taken.
WonderWorks Penang president Rachel Teh Chuann Yien said the organising committee is delighted by the overwhelming public response, describing the full registration as a strong reflection of the community’s growing commitment to river conservation and environmental sustainability.
“The Penang River Run 2026, which will be flagged off at 7pm this Saturday, will bring together participants from all walks of life for an evening that celebrates healthy living, community engagement and environmental advocacy.
“More than just a run, Penang River Run 2026 is a community movement that inspires collective action to protect and restore Penang’s rivers for future generations,” she said in a statement today.
To ensure the safety of participants and road users, Teh said temporary traffic management measures will be implemented along the event route on Saturday from approximately 7.30pm until 9pm, or until all runners have safely completed the course.
Motorists travelling around Auto-City and the designated running route are advised to plan their journeys in advance, expect temporary traffic delays, follow instructions from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), traffic marshals and event officials, and use alternative routes whenever possible.
“The organising committee also encourages participants and members of the public to carpool to help reduce traffic congestion around the event venue and surrounding roads,” she said.
Participants are also encouraged to set off early, allow sufficient travelling time and arrive well before the scheduled flag-off to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event experience. These measures are expected to improve traffic flow, minimise congestion and create a safer environment for everyone.
Traffic will be restored progressively as soon as it is safe to do so.
Teh said the temporary traffic measures are necessary to safeguard participants while minimising inconvenience to the surrounding community.
“We look forward to welcoming all 2,500 participants, along with their families and supporters, to Penang River Run 2026 as we come together to celebrate health, community spirit and our shared responsibility to protect Penang’s rivers.
“In conjunction with the event, the Wala Wala Community Market is also taking place from July 3 to July 5, operating daily from 5pm to 10pm.
“The three-day programme will conclude with an outdoor movie night on July 5. Tickets for the screening can be purchased at the Penang River booth,” she said.
Teh also reminded all participants to bring along their identification cards, as these will be required for verification during the lucky draw session.