A LIVELY atmosphere is expected in Bukit Mertajam this Sunday as some 10,000 runners take part at the 4th Love Penang Run 2025 at Kompleks Sukan MBSP.
State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said interest in the event has grown steadily since its inaugural edition.
“We are glad to see the strong response and the community spirit behind this run,” he said at the press conference held at the Penang Legislative Assembly building today.
He said the event is organised by the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) in collaboration with the Penang Forward Sports Club (PFSC) and several government agencies.
“This run is more than just a sporting event. It promotes healthy living and brings our community together,” he added.
The 5km route will start and end at Kompleks Sukan MBSP, passing major roads such as Jalan Song Ban Kheng, Jalan Seri Bukit and Jalan Sungai Rambai.
“The chosen route is safe and we hope participants can enjoy the surroundings and scenic view of Bukit Mertajam,” he pointed out.
Various safety measures will be implemented, including placing of cones, temporary road closures and traffic control.
“RELA members and traffic police will be stationed at key points to ensure smooth movement of runners and vehicles,” Gooi said.
The medical teams and emergency stations will be available along the route to respond to any unforeseen situations.
To reduce congestion, organisers have arranged several parking areas near the starting point.
Additional parkings will also be available at selected government and commercial premises, including the Central Seberang Perai district mosque and the Inland Revenue Board office in Bukit Mertajam.
A free Rapid Shuttle service will run every 15 minutes from 5am to 7am, and from 8.30am to 10am. Pick-up points are at the mosque and Wonderful Supermarket in Bandar Perda, with drop-off at Jalan Betek.
He advised road users to plan their travel and obey traffic police to prevent delays during the event.
Gooi expressed appreciation to PFSC adviser Datuk Tom Khoo for sponsoring two cars as the main lucky draw prizes.
“We thank all sponsors, partners and volunteers for making this run possible,” he added.
Also present were MSNPP director Harry Chai, PFSC chairman Datuk Lim Choo Hooi, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Visvenathan Tangavello, and PFSC members.
Story by Edmund Lee