Malaysia commemorates its 66th National Day tomorrow.
It is not so often that we hear of seniors getting together to celebrate the country’s national day.
Unlike their younger counterparts who often overlook the significance of Merdeka Day, seniors in KL and PJ chose to commemorate the occasion with a deep sense of understanding and appreciation for the struggles endured by their predecessors.
A Merdeka Fun Run, specially organised by SeniorsAloud (SA), took place on Sunday, Aug 27, to offer a platform for seniors to show their loyalty to the nation in an enjoyable and active manner.
With inclusivity in mind, the event was strategically dispersed across four venues – Taman Persekutuan Bukit Kiara at Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Tasik Permaisuri in Cheras, Subang Ria Park, and Bukit Jalil Park – to ensure accessibility for a wider range of participants and minimising travel distances.
Renji Thomas Abraham, the organising chairman, emphasised the seniors' role in demonstrating their patriotism while partaking in a rejuvenating walk followed by a nice picnic featuring delectable local fare.
The event started with a harmonious rendition of Negara Ku, sung by all with hearts full of pride. They held the Malaysian flag aloft with heartfelt emotion. The gesture symbolised their shared identity and commitment to the nation's legacy.
Seniors showed that age is just a number when it comes to demonstrating their love for the country.
The event also proved to be a microcosm of Malaysia's diverse society, with seniors hailing from various ethnic backgrounds converging to celebrate the nation's history and unity.
Participants were then treated to a spirited warm-up session to the tune of Sayang Malaysia. They were enlightened about effective exercise techniques and the concept of Nordic walking.
The seniors then embarked on a 2km stroll around the park with gentle slopes. In the aftermath of a heavy downpour, the seniors took it easy and walked at their own pace. The cool weather was perfect for a light workout session.
Following the physical activity, participants savoured a diverse array of Malaysian culinary delights contributed by attendees. There was an atmosphere of camaraderie as they forged new connections.
The members of SeniorsAloud demonstrated that their hearts never grow old when it comes to showing their love for our nation. Indeed, they displayed unity and pride in commemorating a pivotal chapter of the nation's narrative.
The event not only underlined the seniors' resolute commitment but also evoked a deep sense of pride and elation that reverberated throughout the occasion, reminding all of the enduring significance of shared history and the unity it fosters.