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Sunday May 12, 2013

Malaysians come together in favour of a mass picnic to relax and unwind

By LOSHANA K SHAGAR
loshana@thestar.com.my


KUALA LUMPUR: Laughter and the scent of food filled the air as Malaysians ditched the post-election blues in favour of a mass picnic for unity.

Over 150 people dressed in the colours of Jalur Gemilang converged at the Lake Gardens here between 9am and noon yesterday for #SayaMahuPicnic, organised by non-profit organisation Random Alphabets.

The event called on Malaysians to relax and unwind from the tensions flaring after the 13th general election by coming out for a weekend picnic with fellow Malaysians.

Among the early birds at the event was communications manager Doreen Loo, 32, who had marked the date on her weekend calendar and roped in her friends and family for the outing.

“I thought it would be great to get together and spread some colours and cheer to other Malaysians,” she said.

United we stand: The early birds striking a pose at the #SayaMahuPicnic event at the Lake Gardens. United we stand: The early birds striking a pose at the #SayaMahuPicnic event at the Lake Gardens.

Along with food and large Malaysian flags, Loo and some other participants brought children along, all of whom appeared delighted at the chance to play in the sun.

A few participants had also brought along their musical instruments, and encouraged others to sing along to songs like Saya Anak Malaysia and I'm Yours.

Random Alphabets volunteers Zain HD and Niki Cheong, who jointly organised the event, described #SayaMahuPicnic as a platform for Malaysians to showcase their unity.

“People need to realise that it does not matter how small their influence is, it is what they do with that influence that matters,” said Zain.

(Right) Muhammad Darwish Adrian and Jarrett Long, both one, waving the Jalur Gemilang during the event. (Right) Muhammad Darwish Adrian and Jarrett Long, both one, waving the Jalur Gemilang during the event.

Activist Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir who joined the picnic at 9.30am, expressed her delight with the turnout and noted that such laidback events was what the country really needed at the moment.

“The message here is clear, that we all can get on and we will not be swayed by the rhetoric that aims to divide us,” she said.

Television personality Rina Omar, singer songwriter Chelsia Ng, and professional emcee Will Quah were also at the picnic, catching up with friends and obliging fans' request for photographs.

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