(Back row, from fourth left) Ahmad Alsraf and Nori with models in batik promoting the Oct 22 charity event. —AZHAR MAHFOF/ The Star
Thousands will be walking nearly 4km for charity in colourful batik wear in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 22.
Batik Fun Walk 2023 organised by Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia (Penyayang) with Malaysia Tourism Centre (Matic) is set to take place at Lanai@ Matic in Jalan Ampang.
The 3.8km route will pass through popular spots including Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Ampang and PETRONAS Twin Towers, according to Penyayang chairman Nori Abdullah.
“Batik is a national craft that represents our people and forms a large part of our identity. It gives value to the community,” she said in a press conference at Matic.
“This is why we are encouraging people to wear batik daily. The walk will be a fun way to start this practice,” she said.
Prizes will be given out under several categories such as most creative batik outfit and for the youngest and oldest participant.
“We will be giving each participant a batik sarong and medal as part of the RM45 adult registration fee,” she said.
As the event is organised in partnership with Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac), its deputy minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan will flag-offf the participants.
Matic director Ahmad Alsraf Ahmad Mokhtar said Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) would ensure a car-free zone in the area on the event day to enable people to move around safely.
“We have always been host of Batik Fun Walk and we are glad that it is coming back for its 18th year after a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Batik is slowly evolving to become more appealing to the younger generation,” he said.
The charity event would also feature concerts, clown shows, fitness challenges and lucky draws, Nori added.
She also thanked event strategic partners, which are Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Matic and MCM CoMetro 5 Pillars Venture.
Registration for the Batik Fun Walk is now open.
Participation with gift of sarong and medal costs RM45 per adult, while children aged seven to 12 can join for RM20 and those under seven can enter free of charge (without prizes), at https://www.ticket2u.com.my/event/32395/batik-fun-walk-2023
