16 Jul IJN RUN FOR YOUR HEART 2024 CONCLUDES WITH TREMENDOUS SUCCESS

Published by CSR Stories

IJN’s Fifth Run Ends with Great Success

Bringing together participants of all ages in a celebration of fitness and heart health, the IJN Run For Your Heart 2024 event was a resounding success. Organised by Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) for the fifth time, the biennial running event this year was held on the 13 July at Anjung Floria, Putrajaya.

The event was officially flagged bright and early in the morning by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. She was joined by Dato’ TPr. Fadlun Mak Ujud, representing Perbadanan Putrajaya as well as other notable figures Datuk Chen Chaw Min, Chairman of IJN Holdings; Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Haji Noor Hisham Abdullah, Chairman of IJN Sdn Bhd; Prof. Datuk Dr. Aizai Azan Abdul Rahim, Chief Executive Officer of IJN; Dato’ Akmal Arief Mohamed Fauzi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of IJN; and Prof. Dr. Hasri Samion, Chief Clinical Officer of IJN.

A total of 1500 runners had the opportunity to compete in three different categories: 5km for children, 5km for adults, and 7km for adults. Family packages were also offered, ensuring that everyone could join in on the fun and fitness along the picturesque pathways of Putrajaya’s Anjung Floria park. Runners were also offered “heart balloons” to carry throughout their run, giving the event a further dose of colour and fun.

Adding to the participant categories this year was a special one exclusively for heart patients, including congenital heart patients, LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) patients, and heart transplant patients. This unique group of runners served to not only highlight the perseverance and strength of those who have undergone heart surgeries but also prove that one can continue staying active and fit post-operation. This special category also underscored the need for ongoing support and advocacy for those living with congenital heart disease.

“This year’s run exceeded all our expectations and we are pleased by its success,” said IJN Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Dr. Aizai Azan Abdul Rahim. “The enthusiasm and dedication shown by our participants — especially our heart patients, including those with congenital heart conditions, LVAD recipients, and heart transplant patients — were truly inspiring. It was encouraging to see so many people come together to support heart patients and heart health awareness.”

True to its theme of “Heartful Strides, Colourful Vibes,” the event also featured a creative tee competition where both adult and child participants had the chance to personalise their event t-shirts using the fabric markers that came with their runners’ kits. Top winners of the competition collectively received prize money worth RM1,000.

The event also featured interactive health booths with healthcare professionals, where participants had the opportunity to learn more about living heart-healthy lifestyles and receive free health screenings. A lively carnival with various interactive displays and booths further enhanced the festive spirit.

“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made this event possible,” added Datuk Dr. Aizai. “Their support and commitment were crucial in creating a memorable experience that underscored the importance of heart health.”

With the success of this year’s run, IJN is already looking forward to its upcoming community-based events as part of its ongoing drive to promote heart health awareness.

IJN once again extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors of IJN Run for Your Heart 2024, including venue sponsor Perbadanan Putrajaya; transportation sponsor LT Travel & Tours; official hydration partner Pocari Sweat; and outdoor media sponsor Libroff. Gold sponsors for the event are Berjaya Corporation Berhad; Gardenia; Dadi Cinema; St. Ives; Viatris; XOX Mobile; Kiddocare Sdn Bhd; Joielle; Argania and BiO-LiFE. Silver sponsors include Amazin’ Graze, Mamee, BZU BZU, ecoBrown’s, and TribeAds; while bronze sponsors are KARTA Coconut Water, Farm Fresh and Pharma Nord. IJN also appreciates additional support from the following sponsors: Adabi; Infinity Creative Sdn Bhd; Kayman Beauty; MBG Fruit Shop; Peacock Malaysia Sweetlab and Kopetro Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd.