Abd Karim: Blessed Run 2024 fosters patriotism, responsibility among S’wak youth

KUCHING (Sept 1): Sarawak’s youth are being shaped into responsible citizens through impactful initiatives like the Blessed Run 2024, which attracted over 3,000 participants.

Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah emphasised the importance of such initiatives in addressing social issues affecting youth, including drug addiction and other related challenges.

“That’s why we need people who are able to mould them into good citizens. I can see that the organisers are very committed and dedicated in their efforts,” he said at the flagging-off ceremony yesterday.

He also commended the organisers for demonstrating a strong sense of patriotism, as the event coincides with National Day.

“Just now I was very touched by the Sejahtera Malaysia song. This event, apart from bringing people together, builds up that patriotism,” he said.

The song was played and sung collectively following the morning praise and worship session, prior to the race.

The Blessed Run 2024 event was organised by Sarawak Blessed Church and sponsored by Kenbest Sdn Bhd.

The event featured a 5km race with cash prizes for the top 10 finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories, as well as a 3km Fun Run.

The winners of the 5km race were Muhammad Amirul Mohammad in the men’s category and Sally Ann Yap Yu Ing in the women’s category.

Speaking on behalf of the organiser, Pastor Lim Gee Tiong noted that the event received an excellent response, surpassing their expectations.

He mentioned that one of the main objectives of the event was to serve as a Family Day celebration for the church members.

“We aim to be a blessing to the society, encourage young people to engage in healthy activities, and show that the church can instil a sense of patriotism and love for the country in them,” Lim said.

Also present were Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, Padawan Municipal Council chairman Tan Kai, and Samarahan Division deputy resident Rais Ahmat.