THE Asia Pacific Masters Games (APMG) 2018 torch run created quite a stir when it arrived at the SMK Bukit Jambul before Batu Uban assemblyman A. Kumaresan led a group of runners from the school gate to the Bukit Jambul Complex, about 3km away, today.
“This is a historic day for us to take part in the torch run. I’m very honoured to be part of this celebration that our state will be hosting a major sporting event,” said Kumaresan after receiving the torch from Grace Teoh, who represented Paya Terubong assemblyman Yeoh Soon Hin.
SMK Bukit Jambul headmistress Athiyah Abd Razak expressed her delight that her school was chosen to be involved in the torch run.
Also present were about 300 Form One and Two students and staff of SMK Bukit Jambul as well as the North East District head of students unit Mohd Fahmy Mustafa. They energetically waved mini Jalur Gemilang during a photo session with Kumaresan holding the torch at the school compound.
“We’re glad to be chosen as one of the torch run destinations. I hope this event will inspire my students to take up sports seriously and aspire to become not only national but also international athletes,” said Athiyah.
Student L. Jayvelan, who was also present with his friend Jereimy Albert, said they were happy to see many health-conscious veterans participating in the torch run.
Before the torch run took off from the school gate, Kumarasen gave away prizes to the school’s futsal and netball winners.
At the Bukit Jambul Complex, Kumaresan said some activities such as zumba, aerobics, basketball and lion dance demonstration were organised to make the event more memorable.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud