PUTRAJAYA, July 16 — The National Sports Day (HSN) 2026 celebration, to be held from October 9 to October 11, is targeting participation of more than 5.3 million Malaysians through various sports and recreational programmes at the district, state, and national levels.
Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said HSN 2026 features a new logo and the theme "Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI)", with an emphasis on integrating both elements into sports development while encouraging greater public participation in sports activities in line with technological advancements.
This year's pre-launch also featured a fresh approach using virtual reality (VR) technology, reflecting the digitalisation agenda the ministry aims to embed in the country's sports development.
"We are introducing something different at this pre-launch by incorporating extensive VR elements to ensure we keep pace with current developments and ongoing digitalisation, in line with efforts to integrate AI.
"For example, e-sports is often viewed as a technology-driven sport, but our approach is to show how it can help create a healthier society. We want to demonstrate that even those who play video games should remain physically active," he told the media after the HSN 2026 pre-launch ceremony at Menara KBS today.
The national-level HSN 2026 launch is scheduled to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on October 10.
Dr Taufiq added that this year's HSN would also serve as a platform to ignite public enthusiasm ahead of the 2027 SEA Games, which Malaysia will host.
"We are working closely with the Malaysia SEA Games Organising Committee to organise the SEA Games Roadshow as part of efforts to build public support ahead of the Games," he said.
The minister noted that HSN 2026 would feature the MADANI Fun Run, MADANI Fun Walk, as well as a range of activities under the Active Malaysia and Sports Industry segments, incorporating the Rakan Muda Lifestyle elements.
