Rides of independence: Ahmad Fauzi (third from left) leading the participants in the national month biking event around the padi fields in Sungai Dua, Butterworth. — Bernama
BUTTERWORTH: A group of local residents rode classic bicycles decorated with the Malaysian flag for almost 10km around the Sungai Dua area here to liven up national month celebrations.
The group, comprising more than 30 people, also saw some donning old-fashioned Malay clothes while carrying the Jalur Gemilang.
The programme’s organiser, Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, 62, who owns more than 40 classic bicycles which are still in good condition, said he decided to hold the activity to evoke the nostalgia of the independence era and fuel the spirit of patriotism among the public, especially the younger generation.
He said residents from as far away as Bayan Lepas and Balik Pulau joined in the event with their own classic rides.
“Almost every year in August, I organise a cycling programme with these classic bicycles; only this time, it’s more lively because more than 30 people have joined in and some of them are dressed in old-fashioned Malay clothing,” he told Bernama.
The former factory employee, who began collecting classic bicycles in the 1990s, said he also provided some bicycles to those who wished to participate but did not have their own machines.
“I have more than 40 classic bikes produced around the 1940s and 1960s, mostly of the Hercules and Raleigh brands made in England.
“The participants were so happy and excited to ride a classic bike because they had never done so before,” said Ahmad Fauzi, who organised the programme for free.
First-time participant Ahmad Hafizy Mohamad Idris, 33, said as an avid collector of classic items himself, he was thrilled to be taking part in the event.
“I came from Bayan Lepas and had brought my own classic bike to ride together with the group to fuel the spirit of independence in conjunction with the national month.”
Sarida Saidin, 46, who came dressed in traditional clothing, said as an active member of the Taman Ara Indah community, she usually participated in the National Day parade on Aug 31, but this time, she wanted to do something different.
Her friend Safiah Abdullah Sani, 65, said the bicycle adorned with the Jalur Gemilang was a symbol of support and appreciation to the fighters, leaders and past heroes, including the security forces who defended the country’s sovereignty.
“Our commitment is to continue to maintain the unity and well-being enjoyed today so that we’re able to enjoy a peaceful and harmonious life with people from all races,” she said.
