SHAH ALAM: It was a big celebration of love for the nation at the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk 2019 as His Majesty The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah walked side-by-side with thousands of Malaysians on Merdeka Day.

Organised by Eco World Development Group Berhad (EcoWorld Malaysia) and Star Media Group Berhad, the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk 2019 was held for the first time as an evening walk on Merdeka Day, at Eco Ardence in Shah Alam.

Participants were flagged off by His Majesty The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, along with Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Azmin Ali, Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari, and Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad

Joining them at the flag-off were organising chairman of #AnakAnakMalaysia Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, EcoWorld Malaysia chairman Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin, EcoWorld Malaysia president & chief executive officer Dato’ Chang Khim Wah, Star Media Group chairman Datuk Fu Ah Kiow, Star Media Group chief executive officer Andreas Vogiatzakis and Star Media Group adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai. Also present was CIMB Group Holdings Berhad group chief executive officer/ executive director Tengku Dato’ Sri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

Speaking before the flag off, Tan Sri Lee said, “Today’s walk is a testament to Malaysia’s unique spirit of unity. We have thousands from diverse backgrounds proudly wearing the #AnakAnakMalaysia wristbands emblazoned with the Jalur Gemilang, walking together for the love of their country. I hope that this spirit of togetherness continues to live on in our hearts, especially that of the youth – who are our nation’s future.”

Lee also said that this year’s campaign’s theme of #BetterMeBetterMalaysia symbolises the people’s desire to work together hand-in-hand with the nation’s leaders for the betterment of our country. The theme – #BetterMeBetterMalaysia, relays a simple message that a better Malaysia begins with each person, embracing change and doing their best.

Large, Instagrammable structures featuring artworks and illustrations by local artists lined the 5.5km route, giving participants plenty of photo opportunities throughout the journey.

The Walk was also attended and supported by many prominent local figures such as Malaysia’s national athletes, celebrities, entertainers, and successful entrepreneurs.

Following the meaningful walk, several lucky draw winners walked away with many exciting prizes, while the grand prize lucky draw winner brought home a Proton Saga.

Other lucky draw prizes included return flight tickets to London courtesy of Philippine Airlines, Panasonic appliances, Ritz-Carlton Hotel stays, a Gintell massage sofa and treadmill, Universal Traveller luggage sets and many more.

Participants were also treated to an impressive display of fireworks as well as a showcase of Malaysian arts and culture at the Ketuk-Ketuk Festival by RIUH, a specially curated creative bazaar held at Ardence Labs featuring pop-up stores, creative workshops, live acts and showcases.

Panasonic returns as the silver sponsor while DRB-HICOM joined as the official car sponsor for the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk.

Throughout the duration of the #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign, which will continue on until 16 September 2019, Malaysians are encouraged to creatively express their patriotism by sharing photos and videos of themselves posing with the wristband on social media platforms as well as the dedicated website at www.anakanakmalaysia.com.