Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) is contemplating the continuation of the HAWANA 2026 Fun Walk in future years, following the enthusiastic participation observed during its inaugural edition today. Its chief executive officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, highlighted that nearly 2,000 individuals participated, demonstrating robust public support for events that foster a healthy lifestyle and enhance connections between media professionals and the community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the secretariat received numerous applications right up to the closing date for registration, underscoring significant interest in the event, which was organized in conjunction with National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026. 'With such a strong response, I believe it will be held again, as we have received very positive feedback from participants who described it as a very good initiative,' Nur-ul Afida stated to reporters after the program at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.
The 2.6-kilometre walk commenced at 7.45 am, with Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah officiating the flag-off. Nur-ul Afida mentioned that the event successfully met its objective of fostering relations among media practitioners, Bernama staff, and the public from various ethnic backgrounds, all within a relaxed and friendly environment. 'We can see the participation of various races in this Fun Walk, and that is our objective - walking while interacting and strengthening ties,' she noted.
The program's success was further bolstered by about 14 strategic partners who established booths to advocate for healthy lifestyle practices among attendees. These partners included Universiti Malaya Medical Centre, Basic Tees, BigBigPlace, Maxim e-hailing, Cap Kunci, Milo, Extra Joss, Munchy's Oat Krunch, Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), MOMAwater, Yakult, ZUS Coffee, Selangor Fruit Valley, and Sunshine Bakeries.
The HAWANA 2026 celebrations will culminate in Penang on June 20, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim set to officiate the event.