Kuching Wins Bid to Host Interhash 2028, Set to Welcome 4,000 International Hashers to Sarawak
Kuching has secured the prestigious rights to host Interhash 2028, marking another major milestone for Sarawak’s growing reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations for international sporting and adventure tourism.
The successful bid was announced following the Interhash gathering in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, where Kuching emerged victorious after a competitive selection process.
The event is expected to bring approximately 4,000 participants from more than 50 countries to Sarawak from 14 to 16 July 2028, generating an estimated RM12 million in tourism receipts for the state’s economy.
The achievement further strengthens Sarawak’s ambition of becoming a premier destination for global business events, sports tourism and cultural experiences.
According to Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, winning the bid represents international recognition of Sarawak’s ability to organise large-scale global events.
Beyond tourism revenue, Interhash 2028 is expected to benefit hotels, transport operators, tour companies, restaurants, retailers and community-based businesses throughout Kuching and surrounding areas.
Thousands of international visitors are also expected to extend their stay to explore Sarawak’s rainforests, national parks, UNESCO heritage attractions, indigenous cultures and renowned local cuisine.
With the dates of Interhash 2028 also scheduled close to the award winning Rainforest World Music Festival, it can be expected that hashers are likely to stay quite long when in Kuching for Interhash 2028.
Four Running Categories Await Participants
In case you aren’t aware, the Interhash 2028 will feature four trail categories designed for hashers of different fitness levels:
- Ball Breaker Run (26–28km)
- Long Run (7–10km)
- Medium Run (5–7km)
- Short Run (3–5km)
As tradition dictates, the event will also include the iconic Red Dress Run, a charity fun run held before the main event, where participants wear bright red attire while raising funds for local charitable organisations.
Organisers say extensive safety planning, route marking and volunteer support will ensure participants enjoy Sarawak’s unique jungle trails while experiencing local hospitality.
Global Promotion Begins Ahead of 2028
The organising committee, led by the Kuching City Hash Club, will now embark on an international promotional campaign across major hashing events worldwide over the next two years.
The objective is not only to attract the targeted 4,000 participants but also to encourage visitors to extend their holidays throughout Sarawak by joining additional hashing events organised across the state, including destinations such as Mulu and other nature-based attractions.
Organisers believe every participant can become an ambassador for Sarawak by sharing their experiences after returning home, helping strengthen the state’s international tourism profile.
The History and Importance of Interhash
Interhash is regarded as the world’s largest international gathering of the Hash House Harriers, a global social running organisation founded in Kuala Lumpur in 1938 by British expatriates seeking a fun way to combine running, exploration and camaraderie.
Held every two years, Interhash brings together thousands of “hashers” from hundreds of chapters across the globe.
While the event celebrates recreational trail running, it is equally recognised for promoting friendship, cultural exchange and tourism among participants.
Over the decades, host cities have benefited from significant tourism spending and worldwide exposure, making Interhash one of the most respected international events in the global hashing community.
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