Bhinneka Run 2026 Draws 3,500 Runners, Hailed as Proof of Sport's Unifying Power
The Bhinneka Run 2026, held on Saturday (4/7/2026) at the Plaza Keong Mas, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII), Jakarta, served as tangible proof that sport can act as a unifying force amidst the diversity of Indonesian society. A total of 3,500 runners from various regions took part in the event, which carried the theme ‘Different Stories, One Finish Line’.
‘Bhinneka Run 2026 is clear evidence that sport can be the most effective unifying force for the nation. Seeing thousands of runners from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and professions gathered here with one goal is a tremendous source of pride. We prove that at the finish line, we are all the same: Indonesians who are healthy, strong, and love diversity,’ said Rahayu Saraswati, the initiator of Bhinneka Run 2026. She added that the organisers also provided coaching support for participants with disabilities. Furthermore, a portion of the participants’ registration fees was converted into book donations as part of a literacy programme.
Echoing this sentiment, Co-Initiator M. Husein Fadlulloh stated that the activity carried the message that differences are not a barrier to moving forward. ‘We want to convey that differences are not a hindrance, but a strength. The synergy between physical fitness and cultural spirit at Bhinneka Run 2026 is our way of nurturing Indonesia. We hope the positive energy from today can be taken home by every participant into their daily lives,’ he said.
Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir, who flagged off the participants alongside Deputy Minister Taufik Hidayat, described the Bhinneka Run as a clear example of how sport can strengthen national unity. ‘The foundation of our nation is Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, and that is the foundation that keeps us united to this day, making many other countries envious. Because with all our differences in religion, ethnicity, and across 17,000 islands, Alhamdulillah we have become a unique strength,’ said Erick. He noted that while many other nations are fractured by conflict and sensitive issues, Indonesia has managed to maintain its solidarity. ‘We just ask the younger generation to continue safeguarding unity and integrity. The President always conveys that this is the foundation for today and the future, especially with the 100th anniversary of the Youth Pledge just two years away,’ he added.
Beyond being a sporting event, Bhinneka Run 2026 also carried a philanthropic mission. Proceeds from ticket sales were channelled towards procuring books for children and teenagers to improve literacy, as well as helping to meet children’s nutritional needs through the distribution of milk and fruit to designated foundations. The participation of people with disabilities was also a focus, with a number of participants completing the course in wheelchairs, demonstrating the increasing accessibility of inclusive sports for the entire community. ‘We have been doing this since the 2018 Asian Games when Indonesia was the host, where sports facilities had to be accessible to people with disabilities. Today, we at the Ministry of Youth and Sports greatly appreciate this, as there are almost 25.9 million people with disabilities and around 11 per cent are active in sports. Therefore, we continue to encourage disabled athletes to have longer careers, even becoming teachers for the next generation,’ Erick stated.
Committee Chair M. Gilang Kartiko expressed gratitude that the event ran smoothly. ‘Alhamdulillah, today’s event went as expected. Thank you to all participants, sponsors, medical personnel, and all parties who have supported us. We hope next year’s Bhinneka Run will present an even bigger surprise,’ he said.