THOUSANDS of people took part in a run at Putrajaya Wetlands Park to raise awareness of conservation efforts related to the critically endangered Malayan tiger.
“Run for Tigers: The Long Run” was graced by Perak ruler and WWF-Malaysia patron Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah who flagged off participants in the 10km and 5km categories.
Held in conjunction with World Tiger Day, the run featured booths by event organisers WWF-Malaysia and Maybank, as well as wildlife-themed activities, interactive exhibits, family-friendly programmes and Zumba.
Sultan Nazrin, accompanied by Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, also took the time to mingle with attendees.
WWF-Malaysia executive director and chief executive officer Sophia Lim said conservation was necessary to protect the critically endangered species from extinction.
“Beyond being a national symbol, Malayan tigers play a vital role in safeguarding our biodiversity.”
She also thanked Maybank for its longstanding support of WWF-Malaysia’s wildlife conservation efforts.
“Maybank has not only provided financial support, but has also helped us strengthen conservation strategies,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to Sultan Nazrin whose royal patronage was a constant source of encouragement.
“His leadership continues to inspire us to never to give up on saving Malayan tigers,” she said.
Maybank Foundation chief executive officer Izlyn Ramli said the strong turnout showed what could be achieved when organisations, communities, government agencies, and individuals unite behind a common cause.
“We remain committed to supporting efforts that strengthen on-the-ground protection, empower local communities and raise awareness of the importance of conserving Malaysia’s wildlife,” she said.
In a joint statement, WWF-Malaysia and Maybank said their decade-long partnership had seen ranger teams grow from just 12 people to 150 now, and more than 500 camera traps deployed in the field, in an effort to strengthen protection at one of the world’s oldest rainforests – the Royal Belum State Park in Perak.
Sultan Nazrin (in yellow shirt) and Tuanku Zara (in green jacket) attending ‘Run for Tigers: The Long Run’, to raise awareness of protecting Malaysia’s critically endangered Malayan tiger.
Thousands, including families, took the time to run while highlighting the message about the critically endangered Malayan tiger.
Many participants dressed up in tiger ears and onesies.
Many participants dressed up in tiger ears and onesies.
One woman steals the attention when she turns up in a tiger costume. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
While WWF-Malaysia panda mascot also makes an appearance at the event.
