PANGKALPINANG — The Acting Regional Secretary of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung Province (Babel), Fery Afriyanto, officially sent off more than two thousand participants of the 2026 Babel Half Marathon at the Merdeka Square in Pangkalpinang on Sunday (25/1/2026).
This national event features three categories: 5K, 10K, and 21K. Participants came from various regencies/cities in Babel, several regions in Indonesia, and even from abroad.
In his speech, Fery appreciated the high enthusiasm of the runners. According to him, this event was not only a sports competition but also a means to encourage a healthy lifestyle, strengthen social ties, and promote tourism and economic potential.
"We want to foster the spirit of sportsmanship, togetherness, and a healthy lifestyle within the community through this event," said Fery.
He also expressed his appreciation to all parties who have contributed to the success of the race, so that the event could run safely, orderly, and smoothly. Looking ahead, Fery hopes it can become an annual agenda and attract more participants as well as tourists, thereby providing a positive impact on the development and economy of Babel.
Fery raised the flag to start the race together with the Mayor of Pangkalpinang, Prof. Saparudin, Deputy Mayor Desi Ayutrisna, the Committee Chairperson, as well as the General Chairperson of the Bangka Buana Cipta Foundation, Fifie Yulianita, and witnessed by regional officials and other guests.
The participants were enthusiastic. The square was filled with runners and their supporters since dawn. The excitement of the event was further enhanced by the holding of an MSME bazaar as an effort to encourage community participation while also strengthening the local economy.
Fifie Yulianita said that the enthusiasm was extraordinary, with more than two thousand people. She emphasized that the participants were not only from Babel but also from various other regions in Indonesia as well as abroad.
According to her, the event played a strategic role in building public awareness of the importance of health through physical activity.
"This Marathon competition is expected to encourage running as part of a healthy lifestyle," she said.
In addition, she expressed her gratitude to all the committee members, sponsors, and related parties who have fully supported it. She hoped that it could continue to be annually held with an increasing number of participants each year.
"We also hope that this event can become a forum to strengthen togetherness, enhance sportsmanship, and promote Babel as a region that cares about public health," she said.
