Thousands gather for Blessed Run to celebrate Hari Merdeka

KUCHING: More than 3,000 participants gathered this morning for the Blessed Run held in conjunction with Hari Merdeka today (Aug 31).

The event, organised by Blessed Church, attracted a diverse crowd, including families, youth, and community members, all coming together to celebrate the nation’s independence while promoting health and community spirit.

Among those joining the run were Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, Padawan Municipal Council (PMC) chairman Tan Kai and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Datuk Wee Hong Seng.

Speaking to reporters after flagging off the run, Abdul Karim praised the efforts of Blessed Church for organising an event that united people from all walks of life.

“I really enjoyed it (the run), although I have just walked about more than a kilometre.

“I want to congratulate the organiser for doing a very good job as I can see that most of those who are involved in the run and related activities, are those in the youth.

The crowd participating in the warming up session before the run.

Participants getting ready for the 5km run during the Blessed Run. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

“These are the kinds of efforts that we have been trying to do through the Ministry, making sure that the youth are well looked after,” he said.

Abdul Karim noted the challenges in guiding the younger generation, especially with social problems such as drug addiction and others.

“It’s not easy to look after the youth, I know, because I’m looking after the youth also through the Ministry.

“Hence, we need more people who are able to mould the youth into good citizens. I can see that the Blessed Church is very committed and dedicated to this,” he said.

Abdul Karim also said he was touched when the crowd sang the ‘Sejahtera Malaysia’ song during the event.

“Through this, the event is beyond bringing people together, but also strengthens our sense of patriotism,” he said.

Abdul Karim (left) receives a souvenir from Pastor Lim.

Meanwhile, Blessed Church Pastor Lim Gee Tiong said the event had several objectives which is to serve as a family, promote healthy activities among the youth, foster patriotism, and raise funds for the church’s building project which will cost more than RM70 million.

“The government has been supportive, approving many of our applications, and we believe our Minister and the Sarawak government will continue to support us.

“But best of all, I think, we are here to share the joy and love with the city of Kuching, with the people of Sarawak,” he said.

Earlier, the 3km and 5km run began with praise and worship at around 6 am, followed by a prayer led by Pastor Lim.

The run concluded with a prize-giving ceremony for the top 10 finishers in the 5km men’s and women’s categories, along with a series of lucky draw sessions.