Kemenpora Opens Registration for Merdeka Run 2026 Celebrating 81st Independence Day
The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) is inviting all elements of the public to take part in Merdeka Run 2026, with registration opening on Wednesday (12/8).
According to an official statement from Kemenpora in Jakarta on Tuesday, registration for the Merdeka Run, held to enliven the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, opens at 5.00pm WIB via the website www.merdekarun.id.
The running event, themed “Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka” (Rise, Move, Be Free), will be held on Saturday, 29 August 2026. Participants will cover a distance of 8 kilometres, starting from Merdeka Palace in Jakarta.
Beyond the run itself, the event will be enlivened by an MSME bazaar, a culinary festival, a drone show and performances by musicians. These activities are intended to allow the public to enjoy the independence moment together with family and community.
Kemenpora has asked participating members of the public to monitor developments regarding Merdeka Run through the Instagram accounts @merdekarun_indonesia and @kemenpora.
The free running event will be attended by government officials, businesspeople, public figures, celebrities and the general public. The Minister of Youth and Sports has also invited members of the media to take part.
According to the minister, the event is part of an expression of gratitude because, at the 81st independence milestone, Indonesia continues to grow and become a country that is reckoned with globally, not only geopolitically and economically but also in terms of creative output.
The minister noted that the works of Indonesian youth in film, music, sport and other fields continue to be a significant force in the current global landscape.
“That is certainly thanks to the Indonesian people who continue to be creative. Merdeka Run is also part of strengthening collaboration,” he said.
He added that the running event is prioritised for Indonesian citizens. However, the organisers remain open to foreign nationals who wish to participate, while also demonstrating that Indonesian society is open in global engagement.