12-07-2025
Charity hike raises spirits and RM50,000
The participants taking part in the third edition of the Perpaduan Charity Hike at the Penang Municipal Park, popularly known as Youth Park. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
THE third edition of Perpaduan Charity Hike saw its largest turnout yet, with over 2,400 participants taking to the trails in support of a worthy cause.
From schoolchildren to senior citizens, people from all walks of life came together to raise RM50,000 for 11 charitable homes, said Penang International Hikers (PIH) chairman Sim Thean Sang, who led the organising efforts.
'We started as a humble hiking group in Penang but took our passion further by doing something meaningful for the community.
Sections of the event was hard-going but the participants managed to get through it.
'The inaugural hike in 2023 drew around 1,100 participants, followed by 1,700 last year.
'This year, we are thrilled to welcome 2,400 participants, including about 1,300 students from 17 schools.'
He said the event raised RM50,000 from participants' registration fees, sponsorship and contributions.
'Most of the funds will go to 11 charity homes, each receiving RM3,000,' added Sim, also known as 'Jungle Sim', at the event in Penang City Park.
Event secretary Christine Cheah said the 5km route attracted the highest number of registrations with about 1,500 participants, followed by 600 in the 10km hike and 250 in the 3km category, which catered to primary schoolchildren.
'We had 200 volunteers, mostly stationed along the trail, to ensure the safety of participants and guide them throughout the hike,' she said.
Hikers walking with family and friends amid the lush greenery and cool morning air. (Right) Participants gathering at the field in Penang City Park.
Participants had the opportunity to explore scenic jungle trails, with the 10km route reaching Bukit Cendana and the 5km route stretching up to the halfway point.
'The trails gave hikers a chance to enjoy nature while also learning to support each other through physical challenges,' she added.
A total of 88 lucky draw prizes worth RM20,000 were given away to participants.
The weather proved favourable after overnight rain cooled the morning air, making for a pleasant trek through the lush and misty forest.
Many participants, especially first-timers, took part with friends and family.
Among them was 10-year-old Lim Xiang Yee from SJK (C) Beng Teik Pusat, who joined the hike for the first time.
'I was nervous at first because I had never gone hiking before,' she said.
'The trail was slippery after the rain and I had to be careful and hold onto tree branches, but it was really fun.
'It was so green and cool in the forest and I learned that hiking needs balance and teamwork,' she said.
Engineer Ahmad Faizal described the event as a wonderful experience.
'The trail was challenging, but it felt really rewarding once we reached the top.
'I think events like this are beneficial not just for health, but also for bringing the community together.
'Even though many didn't know each other, everyone was friendly and helpful. That's the real spirit of unity,' he said.
Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, who flagged off the participants, said it was heartwarming to see people from all walks of life come together for a meaningful cause.
'The Perpaduan Charity Hike lived up to its name by uniting participants through a shared spirit of giving and togetherness.
'Events like this remind us that unity is not just a word, but something we can live out through simple acts and shared experiences,' she said.
Syerleena also handed over a RM18,000 mock cheque to PIH to support its efforts.
Also present were Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Penang Hill Corporation general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng and Penang Sports Council director Harry Chai Heng Hua.
