By Anne Das
The Royal Ipoh Club hosted the One Nation Drug Free Walk yesterday, a 2km evening stroll through Ipoh Old Town. More than 200 people took part, including over 100 Club members with their families and friends.
The event also saw participation from the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM), the Ipoh City Council (MBI), the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (PEMADAM), and corporate partner RHB Bank.
Participants gathered at the Club hall to register, collect their event T-shirts, and listen to a short briefing. By 7.45pm, the crowd had assembled at the main lobby, ready to begin. A ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Club President JP Hari and two invited dignitaries marked the start. The horn sounded, and the walk was underway.
With police escorts on motorcycles and patrol cars clearing the way, participants made their way through the streets of Old Town. Flags waved, families chatted, and friends walked side by side. The distance may have been only 2km, but the purpose gave it weight.
“It was inspiring to see people of all ages, from children to seniors, take part with such enthusiasm. For us at Royal Ipoh Club, this is only the beginning; we plan to make it an annual tradition. Walks like this remind us that awareness is the first step: the more people understand the risks of drug abuse, the stronger our community becomes,” said Mr. JP Harikrishnan, President of the Royal Ipoh Club.
Back at the Club, the evening continued with a buffet dinner in the hall. A live band kept the mood lively while families mingled, agency staff relaxed with members, and plenty of photos were taken.
For participants, the walk struck the right balance between festivity and awareness. “Walking alongside police officers, agency leaders, and families reminded us that the fight against drugs is something we all share. The walk was all about community. Events like these also reduce stigma and show that seeking help should never be shameful, it’s about creating healthier choices for everyone,” said one participant.
Pamphlets were handed out during the event with clear information on drug types, common street names, and their harmful effects. Materials also listed those banned in Malaysia. AADK also reminded the public that help is always available through their toll-free hotline at 1-800-22-2235 or WhatsApp at 019-626 2233, with the message: “You Are Not Alone.”
The timing could not have been better. With Malaysia Day as the backdrop, the event reminded everyone that true patriotism goes beyond waving the flag. It means building a healthier, safer future together.
There were no prizes or medals, but that was never the goal. What participants carried home was pride, unity, and the knowledge that their small steps added up to a powerful message. For Royal Ipoh Club, the strong turnout and the joyful energy confirmed one thing: the Drug Free Walk will return, and it will only grow stronger from here.
See the full photo album of 70 images from the event here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17NGNJKfkw/
