STAY Fit Sunnah Sports Club Penang (SFSSCP) will commemorate Malaysia’s 68th Independence Day with a symbolic solo 68-kilometre walk challenge led by its founder and chairman, Ahmed Faisal Mohd Lazim.
The “Jalan Solo 68KM” event will flag off on Sept 6 at 5pm from the open space near the second Penang Bridge, to be officiated by Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid.
The challenge will end the following morning at Padang Kota Lama, where Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is scheduled to officiate the closing ceremony at 8am.
“This challenge is not just about endurance, but also about reflecting on the strength and maturity of our country at 68 years.
“It is my way of merging patriotism with a healthy lifestyle. I welcome everyone to join me for as far as they can, wearing Merdeka-themed attire, and celebrate this occasion together,” said Ahmed Faisal.
Founded in 2012, Ahmed Faisal said SFSSCP has grown rapidly across northern Malaysia with the mission of uniting communities through sports and healthy living.
The club organises activities such as hiking, running, cycling, fitness training, and health talks, guided by the philosophy that staying fit is part of good values.
Ahmed Faisal, who began competing in sports at 16, has a long record of achievements, including duathlons, ultra-marathons, hiking up Mount Kinabalu and Mount Mulu, and reaching Everest Base Camp.
He previously took part in solo runs to mark Malaysia’s Independence Day and the birthday of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
As a certified personal trainer and indoor cycling coach, Faisal also holds records with both the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) and the Asia Book of Records (ABR).
He stressed that walking remains one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of exercise.
“Walking consistently improves heart health, strengthens muscles and bones, reduces stress, and sharpens focus. Through this event, I want to show that fitness can be simple, meaningful, and patriotic,” he said.
The event is expected to attract participants who wish to walk or run part of the route in solidarity.
For more information, the public may contact Azman Othman (016-6556900) or Cik Syafiqah (019-5574476).
Story by Edmund Lee