Following the success of its inaugural running event last year, Multimedia University (MMU) hosted the run again with more than 2,000 people took part in the MMU eBeeRUN 2019 in Cyberjaya on 21 April 2019.
For this year, the run saw the participants were enthusiastic in completing the run as it aimed to strengthen community bonds and to bring all people from all walks of life together to enjoy the sport. Interestingly, Bikeisable, a group of special need children with cerebral palsy also participated in the run together with their parents. Their participation has drawn the public attention as the group enjoyed the run and at the same time to generate awareness on the unique needs of the special children.
Nur Wadihan Wira Sudepja, 11, who was inducted into the Malaysia Book of Records as the first girl with cerebral palsy took part in the Kerian Incredible Duathlon last year, also joined MMU eBeeRUN2019 with her father, Wira Sudepja Rabu, 44. “When she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, it was quite hard for me at first. However, I started to join activities with others when she was 5 until now. I hope that this can be an eye-opening experience for other parents that have the same condition to not put a limitation their children as great support is really needed for the special kids,” he said.
MMU President, Prof. Datuk Ts. Dr. Ahmad Rafi Mohamed Eshaq commented on the overall event as another engagement activities for MMU alumni, students, staff, as well as the public. The eBeeRUN achieved its objective to raise the funds for underprivileged students, whereby all the funds will be channelled to Yayasan Universiti Multimedia (YUM).
“We are very pleased and grateful with the response and utmost support from the runners for this eBeeRUN 2019. This event is not only for us to get a good workout, but it also for a good cause. We will be able to see the positive change if our society continues to care for the unfortunate as their contribution will definitely help the needy,” he added.
He described the event as not about winning the run, but it is about the togetherness where it is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. “Besides health benefits, this is an avenue to help students in need. A good portion of the participation fees is specially allocated to ease their burden through financial assistance.” Prof. Rafi said.
The run was categorised into three namely 21KM (Half-Marathon), 12KM (Competitive Run) and 5KM (Fun Run). Dengkil Assemblyman (ADUN), Yang Berhormat (YB) Tuan Adhif Syan Abdullah flagged off the runners and presented the prizes to the winner at the prize giving ceremony. During the event, the participants were engaged with a series of activities including Zumba, lucky draw, blood donation drive, Unifi booth and many more.
