(Second from left) Shih, Lim and Ong posing for a photo with a fellow participant.
A charity run at Dataran Petaling Jaya in Section 52 brought together 1,300 participants from ages four to over 80.
The event, called Vegrun 2024, was jointly organised by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Malaysia and the Buddha’s Light International Association Central Malaysia Chapter, and supported by Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei.
It was aimed at promoting environmental preservation and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Children having fun at the charity run.
In addition to the 5km run and a lucky draw, the event featured booths from non-governmental organisations such as World Wide Fund for Nature, Greenpeace and Zero Waste Malaysia.
FGS deputy abbess Ruxing Shih said the event’s primary goal was to raise environmental awareness by encouraging veganism.
“By adopting a plant-based diet, we can effectively reduce carbon emissions (from livestock farming), mitigating global warming and securing animal welfare,” she said.
(Second from left) Shih, Lim and Ong posing for a photo with a fellow participant.
Highlighting the event’s global reach, she said, “Starting in Taiwan, this FGS event reaches out to countries across Europe and beyond.
“For each 5km run finished by participants worldwide, a tree will be planted on the grounds of Taiwan’s FGS as part of our environmental preservation efforts.
“To date, approximately 10,000 trees have been planted through past events,” she said.
She expressed optimism about the event’s ongoing positive impact, believing that gradual steps could lead to big outcomes.
Joining Shih at the run’s flag-off were Lim and Petaling Jaya City Council Zone 20 councillor Ong Yew Thai.
Lim said the event was a significant step towards environmental conservation.
“In the face of climate change, adopting a vegan diet is a commendable option.
“Even occasional practices of going meat-free and dairy-free can help raise awareness, and influence more individuals,” said Lim, who participated for the second consecutive year following last year’s event at Universiti Malaya Arena stadium.
The top 10 finishers in the adult and children’s categories were awarded medals featuring the event logo.
Participants who completed the run also received finisher medals.
