ABOUT 1,500 runners are expected to take part in the eighth edition of the Northern Stats Run 2023, spanning across Penang, Kedah and Perak on Oct 28.
Organised by the Department of Statistics Penang in collaboration with its counterparts in the three northern states, the event, scheduled to be flagged off at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) campus in Nibong Tebal, aims to foster closer ties with the community.
Penang Statistics Department director Khairolnizam Hassan said the event, which starts at 6.30am, encompasses competitive 10km and 5km runs and serves as a platform to enhance public awareness about the department’s mission.
“We have previously organised a few runs in different locations from 2013 until now. This year, it is held in Penang following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We hope the public can gain a better understanding of our scope of work and functionality. We are unlike other well-known agencies or enforcement bodies. So, we hope this event will help promote our Statistics Department.
“When the public knows us better, they will be aware of the census tasks conducted by the department.
“In this era, there are many people who are wary that their personal particulars or information might be violated. We will also provide our insight when getting closer to them,” he told Buletin Mutiara in an interview at Bangunan Persekutuan in Anson Road today.
Khairolnizam said the population census is carried out once every 10 years, with additional surveys such as economic, agricultural, and fishery censuses being conducted to gather data to help them implement new policies for the community.
On the Northern Stats Run, Khairolnizam said the deadline for entries would be extended if it receives an overwhelming response.
“The runners will get to enjoy the scenic view as they traverse through the three states during their run. It will be a colourful event,” he said.
Khairolnizam added that they have also forged a collaboration with the Penang Amateur Athletic Association (PAAA) as a jury for the 10km run.
For more information, visit https://forms.gle/B2sPCdKaGVGTxNN8
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud