Interfaith Merdeka walkathon in Kepong

KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia celebrated its 60th Independence Day on August 31, thousands of Malaysians turned up to take part in the 3rd Inter-Faith Merdeka Walkathon at Metropolitan Park, Kepong to celebrate both the country’s independence and unity amongst its fellow citizens.

The event was organised by the various religious groups in the Kepong-Selayang area, with the Parish Ministry of Interreligious and Ecumenical Affairs (PMEIA) of Gereja Kristus Cahaya spearheading the occasion. The Merdeka Walkathon brought together hundreds of participants, young and old, who walked together to forge new friendships. It successfully achieved the aim of the event to encourage unity and dialogue amongst the various races and religions around Kepong and Selayang.

Representatives from each religious group, i.e. Tn. Hj. Bakri Dahlan (Deputy Administrator of Al Faizin mosque, Desa Jaya), Mr. Kumara Pillai (Chairman of Thirumurugan Alayam Hindhu Temple, Desa Jaya), Mr. Chong Tiam (President of Taoism Temple, Ban Sin, Desa Jaya), Mr. Gurmit Singh (President of Gudwara Sahib Temple, Selayang), Rev Fr Stanislaus (Parish Priest of Christ The Light Church, Desa Jaya) and Rev. Ven. Hemaloka of Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple, Brickfields, were present to show their support and foster harmony and comradeship amongst their members. It was a sight to behold as the participants and organisers stood shoulder to shoulder to sing the National Anthem as the Malaysian flag was raised.

In his speech, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Albert Anthony reminisced about the good old days where neighbours and friends mingled freely without prejudice and forged long-lasting friendships. He hoped that through the walkathon, we will take the time to have conversations and create new bonds of friendship. This was seen at the finish line where participants encouraged one another, cheering on the winners and lending helping hands to those in need.

The day ended on a high with prize giving and lucky draws, with new friendships and a better understanding amongst the various religious

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online