KUALA LUMPUR : For a second year in a row, the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk capped off with a resounding success as it brought together thousands of Malaysians walking side-by-side in promotion of unity and harmony.

Jointly organised by Star Media Group and Eco World Development Group Berhad, the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk 2017 is a simple, but powerful act, which was created in hopes of imbuing a sense of patriotism and fostering social impact as people of different races, creed, and background congregate to celebrate the nation’s milestone.

Held at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam, the 5km walk was graced by the Selangor Ruler, HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, and the royal family. The 5,000 strong crowd of participants were flagged off by the Sultan of Selangor; alongside Y.A.B Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Bin Ali, Menteri Besar Selangor; as well as Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of #AnakAnakMalaysia Organising Committee & Eco World Foundation; and Datuk Fu Ah Kiow, Chairman of Star Media Group Berhad.

The walk saw the likes of Datuk Seri Nazir Razak, Chairman of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad; Tan Sri A.K. Nathan, founder of Eversendai; Datuk Seri Idris Jala, Managing Director of the Big Fast Results (BFR) Institute and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (PEMANDU) in the Prime Minister’s Department, Malaysia; Datuk Jimmy Choo, Maya Karin and #AnakAnakMalaysia influencers such as Datuk Santokh Singh and Datuk Soh Chin Aun, former national footballers; Neelofa, popular actress, model and entrepreneur.

Also in attendance were various other #AnakAnakMalaysia influencers who are honoured and prominent figures; members of society from all walks of life who have a strong influence in the Malaysian community.

Participants were delighted to find a number of photo backdrops constructed along the scenic routes of Shah Alam featuring the unique artworks of Reggie Lee, depicting the diverse Malaysian culture and lifestyle.

Following the meaningful walk, EcoWorld provided the entertainment for the day with the EcoWorld Choir and Team EcoWorld singing a specially composed song, Anak-Anak Malaysia, Anak-Anak Gembira. The EcoWorld Symphony Drummers also showcased a rousing performance with the lively crowd following every drum beat. Participants were also treated to a hearty breakfast, served up by the numerous food trucks situated on site at Dataran Kemerdekaan.

The fun-filled day drew to a close with several lucky draw winners walking away with prizes, thanks to the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk sponsors. The Grand Prize lucky draw winner won a Proton Iriz courtesy of Proton, the official car sponsor for this event. Other sponsors for this celebration were CIMB Foundation (Gold Sponsor) and Panasonic (Silver Sponsor).

The lucky draw prices included a Gintell (M) Sdn Bhd De’Vano S Funtastic Sofa; Goodnite Exec Series 6” Achievement Mattress; Panasonic merchandise; PNB Perdana Hotel and Suites on the Park stays; Spin Pro B1.3 Exercise Bike from Healthy World Lifestyle; OTO e-Physio Plus EY-900P; Soleus GPS Sole running watch, and Kay Kay All Plant Sports Protein Powder by Inno Asia Distribution Sdn Bhd.

Another feat achieved this year as part of the campaign is the nationwide distribution of one million wristbands – which were sponsored by EcoWorld – via The Star and Borneo Post, which was available since 24 August 2017. The #AnakAnakMalaysia wristbands were designed by renowned cartoonist, Reggie Lee.

Throughout this campaign, Malaysians are encouraged to creatively express their patriotism by sharing photos and videos of themselves posing with the band on social media platforms including Facebook and a dedicated campaign website at www.anakanakmalaysia.com.