KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur successfully hosted the Merdeka Virtual Run 2024, a unique event that combined fitness with national pride. Organized by the Jawatankuasa Mahasiswa Pelajar Luar Kampus (JKM PLK) UTM Kuala Lumpur, this virtual run was exclusively open to UTM students and took place from August 31 to September 16, 2024.
Participants ran a distance of 5 kilometers around Kuala Lumpur at their convenience during the 17-day event window, using GPS-enabled apps to track their progress. This flexible format allowed students to safely participate while enjoying the city’s scenic landmarks and promoting an active lifestyle.
A Unifying Celebration of Malaysia’s Independence
The Merdeka Virtual Run was organized to celebrate Malaysia’s Independence Day, providing students with a meaningful way to participate in the festivities. Although students completed the run at different times and locations, the event fostered a sense of unity and patriotism among them.
“We aimed to create an event that would unite students, even when they were physically apart. The Merdeka Virtual Run offered a chance to celebrate Malaysia’s independence while promoting fitness and well-being,” said Faiz Daniel, the program director. “This event not only strengthened the bonds between students but also served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining both a healthy body and mind.”
Exclusively for UTM Students
Registration for the event was exclusively open to UTM students, ensuring a campus-centered experience. With the rise in popularity of virtual events, the organizers viewed this format as an innovative way to engage students. Participants who completed the run received pocket money as a token of appreciation, recognizing their athletic achievements and serving as a memorable keepsake from the event’s inaugural edition.
As the Merdeka Virtual Run is expected to become an annual tradition, the success of this year’s launch has set a solid foundation for future growth and participation. JKM PLK UTM Kuala Lumpur hopes that this historic event will blend fitness, friendship, and national pride in the future.
