Unique Merchandise at RBR 2026: Nona Seroja Elephant Dolls and Tree Seedlings

This year’s Riau Bhayangkara Run (RBR) featured something unusual. Beyond taking home medals, runners also received unique merchandise in the form of Nona Seroja elephant dolls and tree seedlings.

The distribution of this unconventional merchandise forms part of Polda Riau’s commitment to campaigning for environmental conservation and the protection of Sumatra’s endemic wildlife through a sporting event.

The ‘Nona Seroja’ elephant doll was chosen as an iconic representation of Sumatran elephant conservation efforts, whilst the tree seedlings were distributed so that participants could contribute directly to greening efforts at their own homes.

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan said the Riau Bhayangkara Run 2026 was deliberately packaged differently in order to deliver a lasting positive impact for Bumi Lancang Kuning.

“We want the Riau Bhayangkara Run to be more than just a race or a sporting celebration. Through the Nona Seroja dolls and these tree seedlings, we are embedding a message of education and care,” said Inspector General Herry Heryawan on Friday (17/2026).

The Nona Seroja elephant dolls and tree seedlings stand as a tangible symbol of Polda Riau’s concern for the environment and wildlife. Through this event, Polda Riau is inviting runners to join the movement to save the planet.

“We want to invite the public, especially the runners, to work together to preserve Riau’s natural environment and protect endangered species such as the Sumatran elephant. One runner, one tree planted — imagine the green impact we could create,” he added.

This creative initiative received a warm welcome from the thousands of participants who came to collect their bibs and race packs at the Gelanggang Remaja Sports Complex in Pekanbaru. Many of them immediately took selfies with the Nona Seroja elephant mascot and pledged to plant the seedlings they took home.

By combining the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, regional tourism and an environmental mission, RBR 2026 has successfully set a new standard for sporting events in Riau Province.

The Riau Bhayangkara Run 2026 will be held on Sunday, 19 July 2026 and is scheduled to be opened by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The event will be attended by 15,000 participants from various regions, including from overseas.

The organisation of RBR 2026 has drawn appreciation from Acting Governor of Riau, SF Hariyanto. SF Hariyanto specifically expressed his gratitude to Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan, noting that RBR 2026 has brought many tourists to Riau, particularly to Pekanbaru.

“We extend our thanks to the Police Chief and his staff for organising this RBR. I received a report that tomorrow’s event will involve a total of 15,000 participants — alhamdulillah,” said SF Hariyanto.

The Governor acknowledged that RBR 2026 has successfully drawn tourists to the region. This, he said, has had a positive impact on economic growth in Bumi Lancang Kuning, particularly Pekanbaru.

“The impact on the economy of Riau Province, especially Pekanbaru — the hotels are fully booked, SMEs are selling well, food vendors are selling well. Our thanks go to the Police Chief,” he said.