NOTHING like a rousing national anthem Negaraku, 24-drum performance, line dancing and limbo rock to start off a run organised for the community to promote unity.
She also stayed to cheer them on.
The “Merdeka Fun Run 2025” by Taman Desa Residents Association (Tdra), at the Taman Desa playground, had the participation of more than 900 residents from the Kuala Lumpur neighbourhood and nearby areas.
People started arriving as early as 6.30am and were treated to an energetic drum presentation by SMK Desa Perdana and senior citizens of Taman Desa.
Students from Newton International College and Sri Desa International School also sang and assisted the association.
In the main event, many participants ran while others walked briskly on the 5km route from the community hall, through Jalan Desa Utama and Jalan Desa Teratak Muhibbah to SMK Desa Perdana and Desa Utama before returning to the starting point.
One of the highlights was “Bomba Time” where the Taman Desa Fire and Rescue Department conducted safety demonstrations and fun activities for children.
Community booths offered free health checks and distributed helmets as well as goodie bags, while games and quizzes awaited young ones.
Lucky draw prizes kept the atmosphere buzzing throughout the morning.
Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) socio-economic development executive director Ismadi Sakirin delivered the closing speech.
Participants later said the event was as much about bonding as it was staying fit.
“I’m not a runner, so I walked the five kilometres with my family.
“It was fun, but more importantly, we did it together,” said Arun Raj, a long-time resident.
KC Lim, another resident, said the drum performance gave him goosebumps.
“It was powerful and very energetic,” said Lim.
Association chairman Wong Chan Choy summed up the event as “more than just a run”.
“It was about neighbours coming together to celebrate as a community.”
