Malaysia Sarong Music Run 2025 lights up MetroCity Matang with 2,500 participants
KUCHING (July 19): The Malaysia Sarong Music Run 2025 (MSMR 2025) made a vibrant debut in Sarawak today at MetroCity Matang, blending culture, music, and fitness in celebration of Sarawak Day.
The event drew 2,500 participants across three categories — 10km, 5km, and 3km — all proudly donning sarongs, turning the traditional attire into a symbol of unity, identity, and Malaysian pride.
Along the route, runners were treated to cultural checkpoints featuring Dragon and Lion Dance, Gendang Fusion, and traditional performances representing diverse ethnic groups from Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, flagged off the run on behalf of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In a brief speech, Abdul Karim said the event celebrated Sarawak's rich heritage while promoting community engagement and healthy living.
'This event showcases how our traditions can be celebrated in dynamic ways, uniting people of all backgrounds,' he said.
In a statement, the organisers described MSMR 2025 as a cultural fun run — a collaboration between Malaysia Marathon, the federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, and cultural movement organiser Locco.
Locco, known for the iconic Keretapi Sarong movement, brought its signature festive atmosphere, creating an immersive experience enjoyed by participants of all ages.
Beyond the run, the event featured a mini carnival with Sarawakian art, creative vendors, family zones, and performances by local talents — turning the day into a full-fledged community celebration.
MSMR 2025 was supported by various partners including Tourism Malaysia in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, corporate sponsors, and a range of official and technical partners. Kuching Malaysia Sarong Music Run 2025 MetroCity Matang
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
an hour ago
- The Star
National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 to celebrate Sikh heritage, nation's cultural harmony
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Vaisakhi Fest 2025, a vibrant celebration of Sikh culture and Malaysia's multicultural harmony, will take place on Saturday (July 26) at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (Matic) in Jalan Ampang here. The admission-free festival, to be held 5pm to 10.30pm, invites both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the rhythms, flavours and traditions of Sikh and Malaysian culture. Organised by the Kuala Lumpur Sikh Sports and Recreation Club (KLSSRC) with the support of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, the festival is held in collaboration with the World Sikh Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (WSCCM) and the Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya Indian Chambers of Commerce (KLPICC). Organising Committee chairman Datuk Baldev Singh Kailay said the event not only celebrates cultural harmony but also reflects the Sikh community's ongoing contributions to Malaysia's development. "We hope this event will not only strengthen cross-cultural ties but also serve as a platform to showcase Malaysia's diversity to the world," he said in a statement Friday. According to Baldev, efforts are being taken to list the National Vaisakhi Fest in Malaysia's official tourism calendar, an initiative that would not only promote the nation's cultural diversity but also boost the country's standing as a must-visit destination for global travellers. This year's National Vaisakhi Fest promises a feast for the senses, featuring multicultural stage performances, Punjabi folk dances, lively and colourful Bollywood performances and thrilling Gatka (Sikh Martial Arts) demonstrations. Headlining the event are crown favourites, including the Sri Dasmesh Pipe Band and Malaysia Punjabi Bhangra troupe. Festival-goers can also look forward to a diverse selection of Malaysian traditional food and snacks, children's games, a hot air balloon experience, and explore interactive booths hosted by travel agents and NGOs, all geared towards promoting domestic tourism and cultural engagement. Held in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 reflects Malaysia's commitment to promoting heritage, inclusivity, and cultural excellence on the world stage. - Bernama
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
National Vaisakhi Fest 2025: A Celebration of Sikh Culture and Heritage
PETALING JAYA: This year's National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 is a celebration of Sikh culture and a reflection of the Sikh community's ongoing contribution to Malaysia's development. The festival, which also promotes Malaysia's multicultural harmony, invites both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the rhythms, flavours and traditions of Sikh and Malaysian culture. Organised by the Kuala Lumpur Sikh Sports and Recreation Club (KLSSRC) with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the event will take place tomorrow (July 26) at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. The festival is also held in collaboration with the World Sikh Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (WSCCM) and the Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya Indian Chambers of Commerce (KLPICC). This year's National Vaisakhi Fest promises a feast for the senses, featuring multicultural stage performances, Punjabi folk dances, lively and colourful Bollywood performances and thrilling Gatka (Sikh Martial Arts) demonstrations. Headlining the event are crown favourites, including the Sri Dasmesh Pipe Band and Malaysia Punjabi Bhangra troupe. Festival-goers can also look forward to a diverse selection of Malaysian traditional food and snacks, children's games, a hot air balloon experience, and explore interactive booths hosted by travel agents and NGOs, all geared towards promoting domestic tourism and cultural engagement. Organising Committee chairman Datuk Baldev Singh Kailay said the event not only celebrates cultural harmony but also reflects the Sikh community's role in shaping Malaysia into the successful country it is today. 'We hope this event will not only strengthen cross-cultural ties but also serve as a platform to showcase Malaysia's diversity to the world,' he said in a statement today. According to Baldev, efforts are being taken to list the National Vaisakhi Fest in Malaysia's official tourism calendar, an initiative that would not only promote the nation's cultural diversity but also boost the country's standing as a must-visit destination for global travellers. Held in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 reflects Malaysia's commitment to promoting heritage, inclusivity, and cultural excellence on the world stage.
Barnama
7 hours ago
- Barnama
- How Celebrities Capture The Hearts Of Malaysians Through Social Media
Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. In the era of digital connection, social media has evolved from a mere tool for communication into a stage where fans meet, laugh, cry and grow together. For Malaysians, this virtual space is where admiration turns into affection – where celebrities do not just perform, but participate in everyday life. Whether it is on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter or Facebook, these icons have mastered the art of turning screens into a bridge to the heart. But what exactly makes them so magnetic to Malaysian audiences? Stars who embrace Malaysian culture in all its colourful diversity win the hearts of fans faster than a flash sale on Shopee. Posting festive greetings during Hari Raya, Deepavali or Chinese New Year is not just a good PR. It is personal. It says, 'I see you. I celebrate with you.' Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza is a master of this, often seen strengthening her ties with Malaysian heritage and followers by sharing heartwarming family moments during festive gatherings. Topple it with the mix of some local slang, a cheeky nasi lemak meme, or a TikTok skit dodging durians at the pasar malam, and just like that, a celebrity is not just famous, they are one of us. Malaysians have a keen eye and heart for authenticity. When celebrities share unfiltered glimpses of their personal lives, they become more than just famous faces; they become virtual friends. A heartfelt photo, a silly video, a candid confession - these moments resonate. Take Neelofa for instance, whose posts as a mother strike a chord with her audience, offering warmth and vulnerability that feels refreshingly real to the followers. By stripping away the polish and letting the human side shine through, celebrities earn not only just attention, but trust, loyalty, and love. In a world of kindness, celebrities who champion in charitable endeavours or environmental issues gain a deeper kind of admiration. When floods ravaged parts of Malaysia, figures like Khairul Aming and other celebrities stepped up using their social media to raise funds and deliver aid. These acts are not forgotten. Malaysians deeply respect celebrities who go beyond selfies and sponsorships, showing empathy and leadership when it matters the most. Gone are the golden days when celebrities lived behind velvet ropes. Now, they are going live, liking comments, replying to DMs, and reposting fans' art. This interactivity makes the fans feel seen and valued. Actress Mira Filzah, for instance, does this effortlessly by chatting about her daily life and responding to fans' curiosities. These exchanges turn admiration into attachment, forming a loyal digital village around her. 5. Humour: The shortcut to the soul If there is one thing Malaysians love more than food, it is a good laugh. Celebrities who tap into our national sense of humour, win followers and fondness. From Douglas Lim's satirical takes to Ryan Bakery's hilarious school day mockery, laughter becomes a shared language. A well-timed joke about traffic jams or the never-ending rainy season? Instant relatability and virality. 6. Brand collaboration: Repping Malaysian in style When celebrities partner with brands that speak to Malaysian identity, be it for halal cosmetics, batik fashion, or sambal snacks, they do more than the market. They reflect values, style and pride. Ayda Jebat's collaborations with beauty brands, for instance, do not just showcase the products. It showcases a Malaysian aesthetic, inspiring fans while staying rooted in local flair. 7. Behind-the-scenes access There is something irresistible about backstage passes. Social media gives fans access to the effort behind the glitz – gritty rehearsals, blooper reels and raw emotions. Henry Golding, for example, shares both Hollywood moments and nostalgic snippets on his Malaysian upbringing. It is a duality that fans admire: global, yet grounded. 8. TikTok Trends: Dancing into relevance TikTok has become the playground of pop culture and Malaysian celebrities are playing along with gusto. Whether it is a dance challenge, a funny parody, or a trending soundbite, joining the fun keeps them youthful and in tune. Dato' Aliff Syukri's over-the-top antics may stir conversation, but they also rack up views – proof that personality and playfulness are still powerful. 9. Grace in crisis: The art of apology Nobody is perfect, but Malaysians value those who own up, speak sincerely and rise from mistakes. A thoughtful apology, spoken in earnest, can turn criticism into compassion. Celebrities who address catastrophe controversies with grace, transparency and humility often emerge stronger, as their fan base is deepened by respect. 10. Celebrating Malaysian identity with pride From donning traditional attire to promoting local food, celebrities who wear their Malaysian identity with pride evoke a shared sense of belonging. When Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh pays tribute to her roots on global platforms, Malaysians feel not just represented, but honoured. This sense of national pride resonates deeply, turning admiration into emotional kinship. Conclusion A celebrity's influence is not measured by likes alone, but by the bonds they build in this digital age. Through laughter, empathy, cultural fluency and genuine connection, celebrities in Malaysia are crafting relationships that go far beyond the screen. With every heartfelt post, relatable meme and meaningful interaction, they are not just collecting followers – they are winning hearts, one post at a time. -- BERNAMA Dr Nurizah Md. Ngadiran is with the Academy of Language Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA; Safra Liyana Sukiman, with the Centre for Language Studies, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia; and Nor Fatin Abdul Jabar, with MAHSA University.
