A SEA of hikers is expected to flood Penang City Park on June 29 as the Penang International Hikers hosts the third edition of its highly anticipated ‘Perpaduan Charity Hike’, a community-driven event aimed at promoting unity, fitness, and philanthropy.
The hike, which kicks off at 7am, features two trail categories, 5km and 10km, and has successfully attracted 2,400 registered participants, with registration now closed.
Participants are encouraged to be at the starting point at 6.45am.
Affectionately known as ‘Jungle Sim’, event founder Sim Thean Sang said the initiative has grown into a meaningful movement that combines the love for outdoor adventure with the spirit of giving.
“We are fortunate to have strong support from all corners, mainly the community, the private sector, and government agencies.
“This is not just a hike; it is a charity event to raise funds for ten charity homes,” Sim said.
“Our priority is to bring sports and outdoor activities to the community every weekend.
“But this annual event allows us to do more. to give back meaningfully,” he added.
This year, the event has engaged 200 volunteers and aims to raise RM50,000, which will go towards supporting the budgets of ten selected charity homes.
Sim added that eight of these homes will be represented at the event, with dedicated booths set up under two large tents for interaction and engagement with participants and guests.
To accommodate participants, t-shirt distribution took at Decathlon Gurney Paragon Mall on June 21 and 22, where each participant received a RM10 Decathlon cash voucher.
In a proud show of inclusivity, the event will welcome 1,228 school students from 17 schools, who are joining the hike as part of their co-curricular activity programme (PAJSK), approved by the Penang state Education Department (JPN).
Younger participants, particularly those from primary schools, will complete a shorter 3km route, accompanied by elected representatives.
“It is heartening to see students take part. It gives them exposure to nature, sportsmanship, and also to values like unity and charity,” Sim added.
Main sponsor Dufu Technology and a host of other private sector contributors are backing the event, while Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has stepped up with logistical support, including the sponsorship of 3,000 paper cups, provision of water connection points, and coordination of essential facilities.
“MBPP is also providing 1,500 collapsible water containers for students and helping with the overall event layout.
“Other collaborating agencies include Penang Forestry Department, PDRM, Perhilitan, Health Department, and the Malaysian Red Crescent Society, which will jointly occupy 15 government booths, with remaining canopies allocated to vendors,” Sim said.
The event will also feature the presence of several dignitaries and state officials, including, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi, Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) director Harry Chai, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, and Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng.
Separately, Sim said an appreciation dinner is also being planned using part of the funds raised, to thank sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who have made the event possible.
“With last year’s turnout of 1,700 and this year’s jump to 2,400 participants, we see this as more than just a hike, it is a community movement with heart,” he said.
Story and pix by Kevin Vimal