Kemaman Kicks Off Terengganu Run for Peace in Vibrant Style

The usually calm Kemaman town in Terengganu buzzed with energy on the morning of 6 September 2025 as Run for Peace when it hosted the first Terengganu Run for Peace event. Close to 400 peace lovers took to Padang Astaka to advance the ideals of peace and sustainable development. 

Hilman Hajjan, director of the National Department for Culture and the Arts Terengganu office, officiated the event on behalf of Kijal assemblyperson YB Datuk Razali Idris. In his speech, he praised SGM for its continuous efforts to promote ideals that resonate with Malaysians, such as building a prosperous nation grounded in sustainability, wellbeing, creativity, respect, confidence and goodwill. He further emphasised that sustainability goes beyond environmental protection – it requires a balanced advancement of society, economy and the environment, ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation’s progress.

At 7:20 a.m., Mr Hilman flagged off the 4.2-kilometre run which participants completed with enthusiasm. SGM Terengganu youth division members also organised side activities such as a Sustainable Development Goals exhibition, interactive games and stations educating people about waste separation, creating a lively learning atmosphere. 

Many first-time participants who joined at the encouragement of friends shared that they found the experience deeply meaningful, particularly appreciating the educational values and peace messages conveyed throughout the event.

Guests included Mukim (subdistrict) Chukai head (penghulu) Md Aziman Yusof; Kemaman Municipal Council councillor Ahmad Eksan Razali; Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism Youth Section representative Lip Pei Tang; as well as Kemaman Chinese Assembly Hall vice-chairperson Dato’ Siaw Teck Swee and secretary Jimmy Tan Chun Kiang, who all gathered to witness this vibrant celebration of peace and solidarity.

Reported by Phua Jiunn Kheng

More on Run for Peace 2025

First launched in 2005, Run for Peace (RFP) is a biennial, non-competitive event that has attracted over 400,000 participants nationwide over the past two decades. Carrying the slogan, “Peace Starts with Me! ACT NOW for SDGs!”, the event highlights the message of peace in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encourages Malaysians to take concrete action for a better future. Throughout September, more than 70,000 people are expected to join the run across 22 locations nationwide.

This year also commemorates the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing, and Run for Peace seeks to advance the UN SDGs by fostering a culture of peace, treasuring life, embracing diversity and protecting the environment for future generations.

For more information, kindly visit Run for Peace official website at https://www.runforpeace.com.my