SOME 350 avid cyclists enjoyed a memorable 25km ride in Balik Pulau here, taking in the panoramic view of fishing villages, green paddy fields and rustic villages.
The 6th edition of the City Ride, themed ‘City Ride Goes Eco@Balik Pulau’, was held to mark the anniversary of Penang island’s city status.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the organiser only opened its registration to 350 participants this year, as compared with 1,000 participants in the previous years, to observe the new normal and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“Balik Pulau is a hidden gem in Penang. It is filled with flora and fauna.
“I am happy to see our participants excited to take in the beauty of our scenery. For those who are cycling here for the first time, this will be a very memorable experience for you,” he said in his speech this morning.
Chow congratulated the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for successfully organising the programme. He also thanked the participants for supporting the state’s Penang2030 vision of ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’.
MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang said he was happy to witness the continuity of the City Ride.
“This year, the programme is in line with Balik Pulau MP Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik’s and the state’s aim to promote eco-tourism in Balik Pulau.
“While we enjoy ourselves, remember to observe the SOPs,” he said.
Also present were Penang Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee, Muhammad Bakhtiar, Pulau Betong assemblyman Mohd Tuah Ismail and MBPP secretary A. Rajendran.
The cyclists were flagged off at the Balik Pulau Sports Complex before arriving at the first check point Audi Dream Farm.
They also passed by several scenic locations, such as Pantai Malindo, and the Balik Pulau container art.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad