Nasam Colour Walk 2025 was a celebration of unity and hope for survivors, caregivers and families affected by stroke. — Courtesy photos Events taking place in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Ipoh, Kuantan and Johor Baru saw 1km walks for stroke survivors and a longer distance for a supportive public.
A WAVE of colour united thousands of people around the country in a National Stroke Association of Malaysia (Nasam) awareness campaign.
Nasam Colour Walk 2025, in conjunction with World Stroke Day, involved five events that brought together survivors, caregivers, families and supporters in a celebration of life after stroke.
In Kuantan, a mega picnic was held at Sports Complex @TAR UMT (Pahang campus) in Bandar Indera Mahkota alongside a walk led by stroke champions.
In Johor Baru, participants enjoyed a confetti-strewn 1km walk for survivors and 3km walk for the public at Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre.
Ipoh, Perak, saw 1km/3km events at Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreation Park in Ipoh Polo Grounds, while in Sabah, a colourful 1km and 5km Treasure Hunt Walk was held at Tasik Pavilion in Kota Kinabalu.
At Bukit Jalil Recreational Park in Kuala Lumpur, Nasam headquarters alongside the Petaling Jaya and Ampang branches held the major celebration, seeing survivors and supporters walking a 1km/4km route.
The Colour Walk was more than just steps on a trail – it was a day of family fun and community bonding, according to a Nasam press release.
events taking place in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Ipoh,Kuantan and Johor baru saw 1km walks for strokesurvivors and a longer distance for a supportive public.
Families cheered and survivors walked proudly alongside caregivers, proving that stroke recovery is not a journey of isolation but can be shared with courage and hope.
The simple act of walking in colour turned the event into a joyful, gentle exercise, encouraging participants to slow down, connect with the moment and celebrate health, togetherness and resilience, Nasam said.
Behind the laughter and colour is an urgent reminder: Stroke remains the third leading cause of death in Malaysia, with more than 50,000 new cases reported every year.
Incidences of stroke are also rising among younger adults, with a significant rise in cases among the under 65, and the most concerning jump (over 50%) among those aged between 35 and 39.
Lifestyle risks such as high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol and smoking are major contributors, Nasam said.
Recognising a stroke quickly and acting fast can save lives and reduce long-term disability.
“When Nasam first began, we carried a simple belief – that there is life after stroke,” Nasam founder Janet Yeo said.
“Almost three decades later, seeing survivors, families and communities walking together fills us with pride and hope.
“Stroke can affect anyone, even the young, but awareness and support make all the difference.
“The Colour Walk is not just an event, it’s a movement of courage, compassion and healing for Malaysia.”
Nasam general manager Anne Low added, “We are also grateful to BIG Pharmacy for generously sponsoring the event’s T-shirts and standing alongside Nasam in spreading awareness on stroke.
“Partnerships like this strengthen Nasam’s mission to reach more people and spread the message that stroke is preventable, treatable and recovery is possible.”
Nasam board member Jenny Low said, “Walking side by side with survivors, we witnessed their courage, as well as the love and strength of families and caregivers.
“Stroke is not the end. It is the beginning of a new journey. The Colour Walk reminds us that recovery can be filled with joy, colour and community.
“To the young people especially, we urge you to care for your health, know the signs of stroke and always remember that every minute counts,” Jenny said.
