Young participants eagerly following warm-up steps during the joint car-free day and open day in Seri Kembangan. — Photos: AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
GREY skies did not dampen the spirit of thousands who turned up in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, to take part in fitness activities and have a fun learning experience.
The two-day event in Taman Equine was a joint effort meshing Subang Jaya City Council’s (MBSJ) car-free day with an open day by Petaling Perdana District Education Office (PPD).
“This year we wanted to concentrate on activities in Seri Kembangan and the collaboration with PPD has made the event more engaging,” said Subang Jaya mayor Datuk Amirul Azizan Abd Rahim, who opened the event.
To commemorate National Month, the programme included a patriotic theme, with red, white, yellow and blue featured in every aspect from the decor to the activities.
Highlights included a 5km fun run, 15km fun ride, eco-themed free market, an array of food vendors and lucky draw.
The fun run alone attracted over 1,400 participants.
SMK Puchong Utama students in the choral speaking contest;
The PPD open day saw colouring, choir and choral speaking competitions that kept children at the heart of the celebrations.
“We wanted to centralise children’s activities and give them an outlet to showcase their skills,” Amirul Azizan said.
There was also a charitable element, with RM100 cash assistance given to B40 students for their school expenses.
Seri Serdang assemblyman Abbas Salimi Azmi, who sponsored the electric scooter for the lucky draw, praised the initiative for blending environmental awareness with education.
“It’s a platform for healthy living, learning and community unity all in one,” he said.
Parents also welcomed the chance to get their children moving.
Mohd Juzaili, who brought his family for the fun run, said he wanted to expose his children to sports and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
“They are excited because their school friends are here too,” he said.
“It’s important that their first impression of sports is that it’s fun.”
Tan (right) with friends wheeling about during the fun ride.
Other attendees said they enjoyed the variety of activities that brought the community together.
Jeffrey Tan, who took part in the fun ride, said cycling helped him keep healthy in both body and mind.
Amirul Azizan said the enthusiastic crowd underscored the need for more such programmes.
A youngster at the Territorial Army booth.
This was MBSJ’s third car-free day in Seri Kembangan following Taman Tasik Sri Serdang and South City Plaza’s events.
The final car-free day for the year will be held at MBSJ’s headquarters to celebrate its fifth anniversary.
