PUBLIC Bank’s inaugural Run for Change 2024 marked a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability and enhancing the quality of life through Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices.
The event, held on June 9, at Padang Merbok, Kuala Lumpur, brought together over 1,200 participants, including staff and their family members, to champion sustainable health and wellness.The diverse group included 100 students from the Public Bank Berhad Green Growth Asia Foundation (PBB GGAF) Eco-Schools programme, who are partners in Public Bank’s three-year ESG programme in sustainable environmental education.
Residents from three special homes: Lovely Disabled Home, Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Insan, and Pusat Penjagaan Kanak-Kanak Cacat Taman Megah also joined in the race.
Participants gathered at the starting line, ready to take on their chosen race categories of 5KM or 10KM.
The event transcended the traditional race format, incorporating elements of environmental responsibility and community support.
As the event was held in conjunction with World Environment Day, a portion of the registration fees was dedicated to purchasing young trees for participants to take home, plant and care for.
This initiative helps further the nation’s green goals while allowing participants to actively contribute to environmental sustainability, fostering a hands-on understanding of the importance of preserving nature for future generations.
Employee engagement
The event atmosphere was filled with anticipation and enthusiasm across Public Bank’s departments.
Public Bank’s Run for Change at Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur. Race participants were lively despite the early morning start.— Photos by MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
Employees expressed their excitement about the event, highlighting personal motivations such as improving fitness, supporting environmental causes and spending quality time with family and colleagues.
Generally, Public Bank staff were excited at the prospect of this event and many jumped at the chance to participate.
Sharifah Quraisyah Syed Suleiman, from the Public Islamic Bank value-based intermediation and digital transformation, marketing and business development department, shared: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of the Public Bank Run for Change event.
“It’s wonderful to see Public Bank taking such an active role in promoting health awareness and community well-being.
A post-race zumba session was organised for particpants.
“Events like these not only encourage a healthier lifestyle but also bring the community together for a positive cause.”
Sharifah, who participated in the 5KM category, was motivated by her goal of leading a healthier lifestyle and fostering a strong bond among her colleagues.
“This event presents a valuable opportunity for personal growth and positive change within the Public Bank community,” she added.
Yu Keong Lim, who has worked in the bank’s Pantai Remis branch loan department for almost 19 years, won in the women’s 10KM open category.
She reflected on her journey, “I’ve been running regularly for about three years and started taking it seriously last year.
“This was a good opportunity to test the fruit of my labour, and it paid off with my win.
“I always feel refreshed after a run and that keeps me motivated to keep at it.”
She shared that exercising regularly is beneficial for everyone and encourages everyone to be better disciplined in setting aside time for exercise.
“We are cooped up in our offices and sit at our desks for hours on end.”
Community impact
Public Bank’s commitment to inclusivity was evident as the event welcomed participants from various community backgrounds.
By including students from the PBB GGAF Eco-Schools programme and residents from special homes, the run demonstrated a comprehensive approach to community engagement.
Public Bank deputy business development manager and the Men’s 10KM open category winner, Eugene Chai, emphasised the importance of such events.
“It’s amazing to see so many happy faces. And after all, it’s for a good cause.
“I’m actually training for a full marathon in Sydney, so this is one of the first of a few checkpoint races.
“I’ve been training hard, and it’s been at the back of my mind.
“I think it’s very important to promote health and wellness, especially mental health.
“Having everyone get together and have some fun is a good starting point.”
Fostering workplace wellness
Promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles is a core objective of the Run for Change.
The event encouraged participants, especially youngsters, to embrace fitness and wellness as integral parts of their daily lives.
“Promoting health and wellness among employees is crucial for several reasons,” noted Sharifah.
“Not only does it foster a positive work environment and enhance employee morale, but it also directly impacts productivity and overall performance.”
The atmosphere on the day of the event was electric, characterised by camaraderie and collective enthusiasm.
Tay (fifth from left) with Public Bank senior chief operating officer Chang Siew Yen (fourth from left), deputy CEO Datuk Chang Kat Kiam (sixth from left), senior chief operating officer Datuk Sulaiman Abd Manap (seventh from left) together with the race winners of the men’s open, women’s open, men’s veteran and women’s veteran categories.
Participants cheered each other on, creating a supportive environment that underscored the spirit of unity.
Public Bank Berhad managing director and chief executive officer Tan Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek shared, “The inaugural Run for Change 2024 has been a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and commitment of all participants.
“Witnessing over 1,200 individuals unite for a cause that champions sustainability and community well-being is truly inspiring.
“This event highlights our collective responsibility towards the environment and emphasises the importance of inclusivity.”
Public Bank extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic support, making the event a significant milestone in its sustainability journey.
The overwhelming response and active participation have reinforced Public Bank’s resolve to continue organising events that promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility.As the bank looks forward to future initiatives, it remains steadfast in its commitment to ESG principles, community engagement and inspiring more individuals to create a sustainable and inclusive future.
Together, the Public Bank community can make an enduring positive change.
