Chan (right) accepts a token of appreciation from Jee.
KUCHING: Kuchingites are some of the friendliest and most loving people there are, based on the encouraging turnout at the third annual ‘Kuching Run for Autism’ organised by the Kuching Autistic Association (KAA).
It is learnt that this year’s edition gathered some 3,200 participants – a record number for both 3km and 7km categories, which kicked off and ended at the Kuching City South Council (MBKS) building compound.
In his speech, Kuching South Mayor Dato James Chan told the runners that their presence was proof of the community’s willingness to come out in droves to support a good cause such as this.
Chan (second right) – flanked by Lee (centre) and Dr Yao – leads the cake-cutting ceremony for Kuching Run for Autism 2018.
KAA president Dr Yao Sik Chi, on the other hand, thanked everyone who took part.
“I hope that you would help bring greater awareness to the public so that children with autism could get treatment early,” said Dr Yao who – along with the mayor – took part in the 15-minute Zumba warm-up conducted by Shake It Studio before the flag-off for the 7km run at 6.30am by Lee Chin Teck, the managing director of Tecktonic & Sons Holdings – the event’s main sponsor.
Chan flagged off the 3km flag-off at 6.45am.
Organising chairperson Cynthia Jee was glad to see higher participation this year.
“With increased number of participants, KAA believes that the autism awareness highlighted through the running event over the past two years is gaining momentum – the society is aware of acceptance of children and young adults with autism,” she said.
KAA vocational students produce artwork, conference tag lanyards and necklaces for sale, as part of the association’s income-generating activities.
Several young adults with autism are currently employed as part-timers at Hilton Hotel Kuching, in line with the 2018 tag line of ‘Acceptance is an Action’.
Runners gather at the compound outside the MBKS building after finishing their run.
Kuching Run for Autism 2018 was wholly organised by a team of KAA parents, with the support from many sponsors who contributed cash, vouchers and lucky draw prizes.
Many volunteers assisted throughout the event preparation and on the event day itself.
Other sponsors included Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), Cahya Maya Sarawak Bhd, Sarawak Energy Bhd, Sarawak Cable Bhd, Kenbest, Lee Onn, Regal International Group, Syarikat Pembinaan Mantap Sdn Bhd, Tadika Alfa Qdees (Mike 4), KTS Holdings and Bank Rakyat.
Other contributors included MOMA Water, 100 Plus, Milo, Ayam Brand, Ultron, City Joggers Club, CityOne Megamall, and tHe Spring Shopping Mall.