Known as the Rain Town for its abundant rainfall and lush green surroundings, Taiping in northern Peninsular Malaysia welcomed approximately 2,200 cyclists on Sunday, 25 October, for the third edition of The Heritage Ride Taiping 2026.
The ride brought together competitive riders, recreational cyclists and local communities. Participants flagged off from Dataran Warisan Taiping and rode through Sepetang, Simpang Empat and Kamunting, enjoying a mix of rural landscapes and challenging terrain. The event continues to promote active lifestyles, welcome riders of all ages and abilities, and introduce visitors to Taiping’s attractions, heritage and natural surroundings.
Organised under the initiative of Taiping Member of Parliament YB Wong Kah Woh, and co-organised by Kelab Berbasikal Elit and Gosportz Sdn Bhd, this year’s edition featured three categories: the 90km and 65km Competitive Rides, and the 17km Fun Ride. The competitive rides had Open, Master and Senior divisions, while the Fun Ride offered a more relaxed option for recreational cyclists, families, teenagers and children.
YB Wong said the continued support from cyclists reflects the event’s growing appeal and its potential to introduce Taiping to a wider audience. “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.”
The event also partnered with Taiping Zoo to offer 1,000 complimentary admission tickets to registered participants, all of which were redeemed.
Young riders were a key focus, with students aged 7 to 17 enjoying free registration with support from the Ministry of Education (MOE). The ride is also an approved programme under the MOE’s Pentaksiran Aktiviti Jasmani, Sukan dan Kokurikulum (PAJSK), so eligible students can have their participation counted towards their school assessment, subject to the applicable requirements.
Back at Dataran Warisan Taiping, participants, families and visitors enjoyed food trucks, live performances, exhibitor booths and a lucky draw. Dance and drum performances by local groups SJK(C) Yuk Kwan and Kumpulan Selendang Perak added a cultural touch.
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 MOE, with several new sponsors also joining this year.