Strong turnout for Jom Heboh fun run in Johor

JOHOR BARU - The Jom Heboh Fun Run, organized in collaboration with the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), drew a large crowd during its third day of Karnival Jom Heboh. Participants arrived as early as 5:30am and began their warm-up at 6:30am, before the carnival project director, Eileen Lim, officially kicked off the race at 7:30am.

Lim emphasized that the event served as a family-oriented activity, promoting a healthy lifestyle among the community. Despite earlier haze concerns, the weather in Johor proved favorable, resulting in an impressive turnout. Participants completed the run at a faster pace than expected, with some finishing by 9am, even though the event was anticipated to conclude by 10am.

The fun run will now become mandatory for every Karnival Jom Heboh location following its success. EPF corporate affairs department head, Nursyahida Abdullah, and the southern region representative, Muhammad Shamir Muhammad, were also present at the event. The race, which debuted in Johor Baru following positive feedback from Kota Samarahan and Miri, offered two categories: 5km and 8km.

Participants expressed satisfaction with the event, including those with disabilities. Hafiz Haikal Sham, a 36-year-old wheelchair user, found the initial uphill route challenging but completed the course without issue. Sham noted that the track could be improved for future events to better accommodate participants with disabilities and wheelchair users.

Each competitor received exclusive finisher's medals, official jerseys, tote bags, bibs, and various goodies. Additionally, a family package for four people under one registration was available at a special rate for the 5km category. Participants also had the chance to win 50 lucky draw prizes and join the race alongside drama actors, Media Prima personalities, and popular local celebrities.