Former Olympic Games mixed doubles silver medal winner Goh Liu Ying posing with the participants
GEORGETOWN: The vibrant streets of Penang burst into life as more than 500 children and families laced up for the Kidslympic Malaysia Run Penang, part of the nationwide Kidslympic series ahead of the Games in October.
The Penang edition was graced by Steven Sim, Minister of Human Resources, who joined the participants in celebrating a healthier, more protected future for Malaysian families on Sunday.
His presence signified the Government’s strong commitment to both youth empowerment through sports and social protection for families.
"Sports build character, discipline, and resilience. At the same time, we must ensure that families, especially housewives are protected and empowered. Kidslympic Malaysia Run Penang brings both these values together, making this initiative close to my heart," said Steven.
All participants in Penang
A key highlight of this year’s Penang Run was Kidslympic’s collaboration with Social Security Organisation through the “Lindung Kasih” initiative, or The Social Security Scheme for Housewives
This program ensures that Malaysia’s housewives, who are the backbone of families, given access to social protection and benefits, covering accidents, disabilities, and loss of life.
For the first time, this initiative is being integrated into a family sports carnival, underscoring the importance of protecting both children’s futures and mothers’ sacrifices.
"Just as we celebrate our children’s health and fitness at Kidslympic, we must also honour and protect the mothers who sacrifice daily to build stronger families. ‘Lindung Kasih’ is our way of ensuring that the nation never forgets these silent champions," said Goh Liu Ying, Co-Founder of Kidslympic.
Kidslympic Malaysia Run is a national movement to nurture sports culture from the grassroots level.
The run provides children aged 4–12 years with an opportunity to experience the joy of running, teamwork, and healthy competition. Families join in the festivities through fun activities, carnival-style games, and wellness workshops, making the event more than just a race - it’s a celebration of family and community spirit.
The Penang edition marks the third stop of the Kidslympic Run tour, after Kuala Lumpur and Johor.
Carrying the theme “From Playground to Podium”, the run highlights the importance of health, resilience, and family unity.
The next run will be held at Gamuda Gardens Experience Gallery on Sept 28.
The Kidslympic Games, the nation’s multi-sport Games exclusively for children, is expected to gather over 1,500 young athletes nationwide to compete in Olympic-style disciplines at PNB Merdeka Ventures Stadium from Oct 10-13 in Kuala Lumpur.
The sports are athletics, swimming, 3x3 basketball, volleyball, football, gymnastics, and obstacle race.
