KUALA LUMPUR – Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur was transformed into a vibrant cultural hub on Sunday as the AmMetLife Cultural Run 2025 brought together close to 2,000 participants for a lively celebration of Malaysia’s rich heritage and collective health. Organised by AmMetLife Insurance Berhad, the morning was a powerful display of community spirit, encouraging Malaysians from all walks of life to embrace an active lifestyle and unity.
The event’s defining feature was the kaleidoscope of traditional attire. Participants turned out in colourful traditional wear, embodying Malaysia’s diverse cultural tapestry while conquering the scenic 5km route through the city’s heart. The course buzzed with energy, hosting not only families and AmMetLife employees but also special guests from community groups like Pink Unity, Bikeisable, and Incredible Warriors, underscoring the run’s commitment to health, unity, and resilience for all, including members of the special needs community.
Celebrating Unity in Motion
The run serves as a direct reflection of the insurer’s core values, emphasizing holistic wellbeing and social cohesion.
Rangam Bir, CEO of AmMetLife, spoke passionately about the event’s purpose: “The AmMetLife Cultural Run is a reflection of what we believe in—bringing people together in the spirit of unity and wellness. Seeing participants from all walks of life, including our special guests from Pink Unity, Bikeisable and Incredible Warriors, running side by side truly embodies the Malaysia we are proud to be part of. At AmMetLife, our purpose is to help people live healthier and more confident lives, and this event is a wonderful reminder that we can achieve that when we move forward together.”
The commitment to community and health was evident throughout the day, reinforcing the message that collective progress is powered by togetherness. The run also highlighted the simple yet profound joy of movement, making fitness an accessible and festive activity. By setting the event in a celebratory cultural context, AmMetLife succeeded in drawing a wide demographic, making fitness appealing to those who might not typically attend a competitive race.
Festive Energy and Exciting Prizes
The festive morning kicked off bright and early at 7:00am with the rhythmic sounds of the One Malaysia Drum Symphony performance, immediately setting a high-energy, cultural tone. This was swiftly followed by a lively Zumba warm-up session that prepared the large crowd for the run ahead.
The official flag-off at 7:30am was led by Rangam Bir, alongside Vivian Kishore Samuel, Head of Digital & Affinity Marketing, and the senior management team from AmMetLife and AmBank Group. This signaled the start of the colourful 5km journey through the iconic route surrounding Padang Merbok.
The celebration continued long after the final runners crossed the finish line. Families and friends who joined as supporters were entertained by a series of events and interactive experiences at the race village. These included continued performances by the Malaysian Drum Symphony, a lively Kids’ Clown Show, cultural showcases, and interactive booths, creating a truly inclusive atmosphere for all ages.
A highly anticipated part of the day was the Best Dressed Competition, where participants showcased their most creative and colorful interpretations of Malaysia’s diverse traditional wear. Winners were rewarded with attractive prizes collectively valued at more than RM18,000.
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Further adding to the excitement, the event featured multiple lucky draw rounds with impressive giveaways designed to promote active and convenient living. These top prizes included a brand-new Modenas Kriss 110 motorcycle worth RM4,200, along with fitness machines (such as treadmills and exercise bikes), home appliances (like microwaves and robot vacuums), and various gadgets (tablets and smartwatches). Participants also stood to win discount vouchers for running shoes from Brooks and general shopping vouchers.
The morning wrapped up with a final round of prize giveaways and a group warm-down session, celebrating the shared effort and collective achievement of every person who participated. The presence of cultural showcases and photo opportunities ensured that the event resonated as much for its cultural appreciation as it did for its fitness goals.
