A total of 4,014 runners from 21 countries across Europe, Africa, and Asia have successfully completed the trail running challenge in the prestigious Malang Trail Runners (Mantra) 116 event. The race, which took place from July 3–5, 2026, in the Prigen area of Pasuruan Regency, became a magnet for athletes after previously being postponed due to the pandemic.
This year, the organizers introduced a new route, namely the Lincing trail, which stretches across the Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park (Tahura) area. Offering six different distance categories, participants were tested on their resilience in conquering the extreme terrain of the iconic Arjuno-Welirang mountains.
East Java Governor, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, who was present to flag off the participants, emphasized that Mantra 116 is not just a test of speed. According to her, this event is a manifestation of the sport tourism concept that aims to introduce the beauty of East Java's landscape to the global stage. She hopes this activity can generate positive energy for all parties involved.
From an economic perspective, the presence of thousands of participants from various countries is projected to have a significant impact on Local Genuine Income (PAD). Supporting sectors such as hospitality, transportation, culinary, and local creative economy actors in the surrounding Pasuruan and Malang areas are expected to see an increase in transactional activity during the event.
Behind the excitement of the competition, environmental sustainability remains a top priority. The East Java Provincial Government, through the Forestry Department, ensured that every route in the Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park conservation area went through a strict licensing process to ensure the forest ecosystem remains protected. This step is in line with the 'Jatim Lestari' campaign, which promotes synergy between tourism and nature conservation.
The East Java Provincial Culture and Tourism Office noted that the eco sport tourism trend has a bright future. Currently, about 30 percent of tourist visits to East Java are driven by various sports and arts events held regularly. The success of Mantra 116 further consolidates East Java's position as the province with the highest number of events in Indonesia, as well as a promotional showcase for world-class nature tourism.
