By Rosli Mansor
IPOH – The Run for Peace 2025 is scheduled to take place in Perak on September 7, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a powerful demonstration of solidarity, peace, and environmental awareness.
The 6km non-competitive run will be held at the Sultan Azlan Shah Roundabout in Meru, in collaboration with the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNP).
Organised biennially by Soka Gakkai Malaysia (SGM) since 2005, Run for Peace has evolved into a national grassroots movement aimed at fostering a culture of peace, unity, and sustainable living.
With the theme “Peace Begins with Me – Act NOW for SDG!”, this year’s run encourages individual action in support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a strong focus on climate consciousness and social harmony.
SGM stated in a press release that the event has received official endorsement from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as well as the Ministry of National Unity, marking a significant milestone in youth-led initiatives for sustainable peace.
“Nothing is more precious than peace, nothing brings greater happiness,” said Dr. Daisaku Ikeda, founder and Honorary President of Soka Gakkai International (SGI), whose philosophy underpins the spirit of the movement.
In line with its sustainability goals, the 2025 run introduces several eco-friendly measures. These include encouraging participants to reuse their 2023 T-shirts to reduce textile waste, offering new T-shirts made from Global Recycled Standard (GRS)-certified materials, and eliminating the use of medals to minimise environmental impact.
Participants will also be urged to bring their water bottles and reusable bags, while recycling stations will be set up at event locations.
Beyond the run itself, a series of community-based programmes such as clean-up campaigns, blood donation drives, recycling workshops, SDG-themed days, and peace exhibitions will be held to nurture awareness and civic responsibility.
Open to Malaysians aged 7 to 80, the event welcomes all, whether to run, walk, volunteer, or simply show support. It is more than a physical activity; it is a collective declaration for a more peaceful and inclusive Malaysia.
Registration is now open at the official website: www.runforpeace.com.my.
