THE Perpaduan Charity Hike is making a triumphant return for the second time this year, with nearly 2,000 participants signed up, showing a significant increase in enthusiasm.
The event aims to raise funds for charitable homes and eligible organisations in Penang, highlighting the generosity of retired individuals dedicated to community service.
Organised by the Penang Hikers group, the hike will take place on June 30 from 7.15am at the Penang City Park.
It is co-organised by Stay Fit Is Sunnah, a local fitness team, and supported by the Hikers Roundtable group.
Organising chairman Sim Thean Sang, affectionately known as ‘Jungle Sim,’ announced three main categories for the hike, along with a special 5km category for hearing-impaired hikers.
The categories include:
– 12km extreme hike (241 participants)
– 8km charity hike (999 participants)
– 3km family walk (544 participants)
The hearing-impaired category has attracted 151 entries. Additionally, around 200 volunteers will ensure the event runs smoothly.
“Our goal is to give back to the community by promoting a healthy lifestyle among Penang residents.
“We are thrilled with this year’s overwhelming response and appreciate the support from the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP),” Sim told a media conference in Komtar today.
He also acknowledged the support from state Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen and his office.
This year’s event is also supported by the Old Xaverians Association (OXA) as part of its centenary celebrations. Last year, the hike saw 1,174 participants, while this year’s registration has increased to 1,953.
Net proceeds will benefit 11 charitable homes and organisations, including Wisma Yatim Perempuan Islam Pulau Pinang, Wisma Yatim Laki-Laki Pulau Pinang, Penang Shan Children’s Home, the Salvation Army Penang, St Xavier’s Primary School, Penang Deaf Association, Crystal Family Home, Agape Home, the Children’s Protection Society Penang, Ramakrishna Ashrama, and Ru Yi Home (Children’s Home).
There will also be awareness exhibitions by the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) and various health and wellness-related promotions and activities.
Participants can look forward to exciting lucky draw prizes at the end of the programme on Sunday (June 30).
Those interested in donating can contact the deputy organising chairman Mohammad Rafiq Michael Abdullah at 012-9912648.
Joining Sim at the media conference were Gooi and Stay Fit Is Sunnah founder Ahmed Faisal Mohd Lazim.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En