MORE than 2,000 participants, all clad in vibrant pink shirts, crossed the finishing line at the Penang River Run 2026 held at Auto-City, Juru, this evening, united by a common mission to champion river conservation and raise awareness of the importance of protecting Penang’s waterways.
Held under the theme ‘Run For The River, Run For Life’, the event was organised by WonderWorks Penang and brought together people from all walks of life in support of environmental sustainability while promoting healthy living.
Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) councillor and WonderWorks Penang president Rachel Teh Chuann Yien said the overwhelming turnout demonstrated the community’s growing commitment to safeguarding the environment.
“While much of the city carried on with its daily routine, all of you chose to spend your evening here with us. Tonight marks a new beginning and a renewed hope for healthier rivers.
“At WonderWorks, we believe conservation is not measured by the number of programmes we organise, but by the number of people we inspire to take action long after an event has ended.
“So tonight is not the end of our journey; it is only the beginning. The conversations you had, the friendships you built, the memories you created with your families, and the awareness you embraced are the true achievements of the Penang River Run.
“I hope everyone will leave here carrying one important message: to always keep the health of our rivers close to our hearts,” she said during her speech.
Also present were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Teh also urged the public to continue playing an active role in conserving rivers, stressing that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the event itself.
Meanwhile, Chow described the participation of more than 2,000 runners as a remarkable achievement and congratulated WonderWorks Penang for successfully organising the event.
“I would also like to extend my appreciation to all sponsors, partners, volunteers and supporting agencies. Your dedication has made this event a great success.
“This year’s theme, ‘Run For The River, Run For Life’, reminds us that the health of our rivers is directly linked to the well-being of our communities and the future of our state.
“As Penang continues to grow, so does our water demand,” he said.
Quoting figures from the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), Chow said the state’s average daily water consumption reached approximately 865 million litres in 2025 and is projected to exceed 1.16 billion litres by 2032.
“This underscores that water security is not merely an environmental issue, but a critical development priority.
“While the state government continues to strengthen long-term water supply resilience through infrastructure development, infrastructure alone is not enough.
“Protecting our rivers, conserving water and using our resources responsibly are equally essential.
“That is why initiatives such as the Penang River Run are so important. Beyond promoting healthy lifestyles, they raise public awareness and encourage collective action,” he said.
Chow added that what made the event truly meaningful was the spirit demonstrated by the participants.
“More than 2,000 people chose to spend their evening supporting a cause that will benefit both present and future generations.
“This reflects the strong sense of responsibility and community spirit that defines the people of Penang.
“It also embodies the essence of our Penang2030 vision that building a prosperous, liveable and sustainable state requires not only sound policies, but also active public participation,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi