BADUNG, ULTIMOPARADISO.COM – The village of Sulangai, located in Petang District, Badung, Bali, served as the vibrant host of IHGMA Run 2025 on Sunday, June 22, 2025. A total of 1,770 runners from various regions across Indonesia took part in this community-based running event initiated by the Indonesian Hotel General Manager Association (IHGMA) Bali Chapter. By blending sports, culture, and village empowerment, IHGMA Run has evolved into more than just a race—it is a tangible movement to elevate tourism villages.
Komang Antara, Chairperson of IHGMA Run 2025, expressed appreciation for all elements that contributed to the success of the event. He emphasized that collaboration among the committee, volunteers, and local residents was key to its smooth execution.
“We hope IHGMA Run will become an annual event that not only makes Bali proud, but also inspires other tourism villages across Indonesia,” he stated.
The event was officially opened by Sulangai Village Chief (Perbekel), Nyoman Sunarta, who expressed his pride in having his village chosen as the venue. He welcomed the runners enthusiastically and invited them to experience Sulangai’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.
The running routes were specially designed to showcase scenic rice fields, cool mountain air, and paths passing through sacred spiritual sites unique to Bali. Participants were not only physically challenged but also offered a chance to experience inner peace in a serene and spiritual environment.
According to Komang Artana, Chairman of IHGMA Bali, the event serves as direct support for strengthening tourism villages. He highlighted the importance of cultural and environmental preservation in building sustainable and inclusive tourism.
Meanwhile, Dr. I Gede Arya Pering Arimbawa, Chairman of IHGMA National Board (DPP), added that the event reflects the hospitality industry’s commitment to strengthening rural economies and promoting tourism models that involve all segments of society.
The initiative also received strong support from both local and national government entities. Nyoman Rudiarta, Head of Badung Tourism Office, described Sulangai as a concrete example of successful collaboration between the community and the government in creating innovative and authentic destinations.
IHGMA Run 2025 was not only a sporting event but also a platform for promoting local UMKM. Traditional foods and handcrafted products from Sulangai were displayed in dedicated booths, creating new economic opportunities for the villagers through visitor and participant engagement.
Beyond running and tourism, the event also carried a strong environmental message. With mindful waste management, refillable water stations, and cultural education initiatives, the organizers invited all participants to help maintain harmony between people and nature.
IHGMA Run 2025 leaves behind more than just footprints. It leaves a legacy of collaboration, care for rural communities, and a renewed awareness that tourism must not only entertain—but also empower, grow, and involve the people at its heart.***
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