KLANG, SEPT 8: At least 11,000 participants wearing pink T-shirts, including the Chief Minister, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, took part in the ‘Run For Peace 2013’ to promote peace and harmony among the society.
People, from the elderly to youth and children gathered as early as 5.30am in Taman Klang Jaya. The run was organised by the Malaysian Soka Gakkai Association, and was officiated by Abdul Khalid.
Also celebrating the event was the Vice-President of the Klang Municipal Council, Ehsan Mukri, and the Chairman of the Soka Gakkai Association of Selangor, Johnny Ng Teck Sim.
Before the eight-kilometre run, participants did warming-up exercises en masse. The presence of Abdul Khalid was welcomed and he was immediately swarmed when he got out of his four-wheel drive vehicle.
“It is hoped that this programme will create public awareness on the importance of peace in order to create a harmonious society,” said Abdul Khalid.
While waiting for the run to start, the crowd was entertained by a Flash Mob, Chinese drums and Kung Fu-styled acrobatics from the Selangor Soka Gakkai Youth.
The morning atmosphere was very enlivening when the crowd made repeated human waves and interacted with each other.
The biennial programme which started in 2005 began with only 1,000 participants. Two years ago, the Run for Peace recorded 8,000 entries.
The programme which was held on September 7 was held simultaneously in all state capitals except for Alor Setar, Kota Bahru and Kuala Terengganu.
“It was a very impressive morning, and this is what we hope to achieve – to foster the sense of family and a healthy lifestyle, to sow the spirit of friendship and mutual trust among us us. Peace grows out of these things,” said Johnny.
The programme ended at 9am.
