KKTSS USM HOSTS ‘ROUND THE HOUSES 2026’ RELAY RUN

NIBONG TEBAL, 11 April 2026 - The Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus (KKTSS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in collaboration with the Penang Amateur Athletic Association (PAAA), the Penang State Sports Council and MILO, played host to the Round the Houses 2026 Relay Run at the campus today.

First introduced in 1958, the Round the Houses Relay Run is one of the most significant traditional events in Penang’s athletics calendar and continues to receive encouraging participation from athletes and sports enthusiasts at various levels.

In its early years, the event was held at Sepoy Lines Road (Polo Ground) before being expanded to various locations across Penang to reduce traffic congestion, while also fostering teamwork and cooperation among participants.

This year’s edition at KKTSS USM was held in conjunction with the campus’s 25th anniversary celebrations and formed part of the activities marking the campus’s silver jubilee.

A total of 18 teams took part in the relay run, including contingents from the states of Perlis, Kedah and Perak, adding to the vibrancy and competitiveness of the event.

PAAA President Dato’ Seri Syed Mohamad Aidid said the organisation of the relay run went beyond being merely a sporting event, serving instead as a platform to preserve athletics traditions while promoting camaraderie and teamwork across generations of athletes.

“PAAA extends its highest appreciation to Universiti Sains Malaysia, particularly KKTSS, for opening its campus as the venue in conjunction with its 25th anniversary, as well as for the strong support shown towards sustaining this heritage event,” he said.

He also expressed his gratitude to all partners, participating teams, technical officials and volunteers who contributed their commitment and efforts to ensure the smooth running and success of the event.

Meanwhile, the Dean of the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering , Professor Ts. Dr. Zulkifli Mohamad Ariff, representing the Director of KKTSS USM, said the campus was honoured and proud to host the historic event as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

According to him, the organisation of such sporting programmes reflects KKTSS USM’s commitment to supporting a healthy lifestyle, youth development and community engagement through sports and recreational activities.

Text and Photos: Courtesy of the Penang Amateur Athletic Association (PAAA)