Over 300 participants join Mental Health Run 2024 to promote awareness

SIBU (Oct 7): A total of 323 running enthusiasts participated in the Mental Health Run 2024 held at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) here yesterday.

A press statement said the event was jointly organised by the institution’s Student Development and Service Centre and Sibu Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, aiming to promote mental health awareness and foster the spirit of community.

“The event successfully attracted participants from various sectors, including private higher education institutions, primary and secondary schools, government agencies, and the private sector, as well as the general public,” read the statement.

The run comprised of three categories, namely the Men’s 10km, Women’s 10km, and a 5km Fun Run, where UTS Registrar Jimmy De Rozario @ Abdul Rahman and Sibu Hospital deputy director Dr Dr Nizam Ishak jointly officiated and flagged off the runners.

Moreover, a highlight of the event was an educational exhibition hosted by the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, providing valuable information and mental health resources to attendees.

“The presence of an educational component to the Mental Health Run demonstrates a significant collaboration between the education and healthcare sectors in Sibu, emphasising the importance of mental health awareness,” added the statement.

Among the other activities held was a lucky draw session, which aimed to encourage community participation for the cause of mental health awareness.

The event was sponsored by the Hock Peng Organisation, Mafrica Group, Speedtrack Construction Sdn Bhd, OM Materials (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, Press Metal, Public Bank, and Vector Infotech.