January 15, 2025

KOTA SAMARAHAN, Jan 4, 2025 – The Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FSKPM) at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) ushered in the new year with the highly successful FSKPM Fun Run 2025 on January 4th. This event served as a platform to promote physical well-being, strengthen communal bonds, and foster a sense of shared purpose among participants

The event attracted approximately 1,300 individuals, comprising students, faculty members, and members of the local community, underscoring its inclusive and community-oriented nature. Participants gathered as early as 6:00 AM to complete registration and prepare for the day’s activities, creating a vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere.

The program commenced at 6:30 AM with the singing of the Malaysian National Anthem and the UNIMAS Gemilang Song, fostering a spirit of unity and institutional pride. Following this, a structured aerobics warm-up session was conducted, designed to energize participants and prepare them physically for the challenges ahead.

The Fun Run officially began at 7:00 AM with an inaugural flag-off by Dr Hana Hamidi, Dean of FSKPM. Two distinct routes were offered: a 5 km course featuring six checkpoints for students and non-faculty members and a 3 km route with three checkpoints designated for lecturers. Hydration stations were strategically placed along the routes to ensure participants’ comfort and safety throughout the activity.

The scenic routes provided participants with an opportunity to engage with the natural beauty of the surroundings while emphasizing physical fitness and fostering camaraderie. Supportive interactions among participants highlighted the event’s overarching theme of collective effort and mutual encouragement. By 9:30 AM, all participants had successfully completed their respective courses, demonstrating determination and resilience.

The culmination of the event took place at 10:00 AM with a formal closing ceremony. In her address, Dr. Hana Hamidi underscored the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and emphasized the role of initiatives such as the Fun Run in promoting holistic well-being. She also expressed her hope for the continuation of similar programs to benefit the broader community.

Programme Director Manuel Mavel Marcus delivered an expression of gratitude, acknowledging the contributions of organizers, volunteers, and participants whose collective efforts ensured the event’s success. The ceremony also included a prize-giving session to recognize the achievements of top finishers, reinforcing the value of effort and perseverance.

The event concluded with a photo session facilitated by the FSKPM Media Team, capturing the essence of the day—unity, joy, and accomplishment.

The FSKPM Fun Run 2025 stands as a testament to the faculty’s commitment to fostering health, unity, and community engagement. By integrating fitness with a sense of collective purpose, the event demonstrated the potential of such initiatives to inspire long-term behavioral change and strengthen social cohesion. The Fun Run exemplifies how academic institutions can serve as catalysts for holistic development, encouraging individuals to strive for both personal and communal growth in the year ahead.

Contributed by Arashveer Singh S/O Amar Singh / PM FSKPM