KUCHING: Running is not only a form of exercise to maintain our health, but also a way for the community to show support for a cause or celebration.
One such celebratory run, the “Forest Fun Run 2019” hosted by the Forestry Department Sarawak (FDS) and managed by Grit Event Management, will be held in four regions (Bintulu, Miri, Sibu and Kuching) this year to commemorate FDS’ 100th year anniversary since its establishment in 1919.
“In celebration of this special occasion, there are many programmes planned throughout the year. We hope this community event will appeal not only to seasoned runners, but also newcomers who would like to start running in a fun, friendly and safe setting,” said FDS director Hamden Mohammad during a press conference at the headquarters here yesterday.
He then emphasised on the department’s commitment towards sustainable forestry.
“We also hope that this fun run will encourage better rapport between the public and FDS. Hopefully, the public will gain exposure and understanding about our work and responsibilities,” he added.
The event, co-organised by Shin Yang, Ta Ann, Samling, Sarawak Timber Association, WTK and KTS, is expected to attract more than 3,500 participants from the corporate, public and private sectors in addition to any individuals be they from Malaysia or overseas.
In Bintulu, the run will be held at Taman Tumbina on August 25, while in Miri at Piasau Nature Reserve on Sept 8. For Sibu, the fun run will be on Sept 22 at Bukit Lima Forest Park, and the final leg of the series will be held in Kuching at the Sarawak State Library on Nov 3, 2019.
“Every participant will each receive an e-certificate and a finisher’s medal,” said Hamden.
Meanwhile, he revealed that each region would have a uniquely-designed medal to showcase the indigenous trees of the state.
“Bintulu’s medal will portray the Belian, Miri (Tapang), Sibu (Ensurai) and Kuching (Enkabang Jantong).”
Hamden also encouraged participants to join all four runs to collect all the medals to display a forest ecosystem.
As the run is organised with the concept of forest rehabilitation, the forestry director said that the top 100 first finishers would be given a tree seedling each, which will be planted at a designated area of the event site.
“The top 100 finishers will also have their names printed on the signage at the venue,” he said, adding that the sign would be erected a week after the event.
“We hope everyone will get together to enjoy this activity while considering our forests,” encouraged Hamden.
Registration for the “Forest Fun Run 2019” is open as of yesterday, and those interested should sign up as soon as possible as there are limited slots.
Interested parties can register online at www.gritevent.com/forestfunrun for the 5km run, or at their respective Forestry Departments. Applications will close a month prior to the respective run dates. For more information, call 016-8882794 (Josh) or 082-319164 (FDS).
