Solidarity of UMPSA international students from 13 countries participating in the International SDG Run for sustainable development goals

KUANTAN, 8 June 2024 - The Pahang International SDG Run Program organised by the Centre for International Relations (CIR), Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) together with the Pahang State Kelana Scout Secretariat was held at Pantai Sepat, Kuantan on the last weekend.

The programme was held with the aim of raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting healthy lifestyles through running activities.

More than 7,000 participants consisting of 60 UMPSA international students from 13 countries participated in the programme.
The programme also proved global support for Pahang’s efforts in achieving sustainable development goals.

According to the Director of CIR, Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Azmir Mohd Azhari, this programme not only aimed to raise awareness about the SDGs but also to strengthen international relations through healthy cultural interactions.

“The presence of students from various countries shows a global commitment to supporting sustainable development efforts at the local level,” he said.

In addition to the running event, there was an activity held throughout the month, namely communal work in their respective residential areas to promote cleanliness.

According to one of the participants from Indonesia, Dina Millatina, she was delighted to participate in this programme because it provided an opportunity for her to take care of her health and even to meet and interact with friends from various countries.

“This is a meaningful experience and I hope to learn more about the efforts to reach the SDGs,” she said.

The programme also involved various activities, namely lucky draws, quizzes, video shows, and camp assignments that they needed to do to enliven the atmosphere.

Meanwhile, in addition to the running event, 30 exhibition booths from various departments and agencies as well as sales booths were also held.

The participants also went through the coastal route and paddy fields with a total distance of 5.5 km.

CIR hoped that this programme could have a positive impact in increasing public awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and encouraging more individuals to be involved in efforts to achieve the SDGs.

By: Muhammad Zufli Zuhari, Centre for International Relations
Translation by: Dr.  Rozaimi  Abu  Samah, Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology