Merdeka Run 8.0K Marks Festive Commemoration of Indonesia’s Independence
Thousands of people have gathered around the Merdeka Palace to enliven the Merdeka Run 8.0K on Sunday (08/24). The event was part of the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence and aimed to showcase that the spirit of sports can unite people in a familial and festive atmosphere.
Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin was among the participants who reached the finish line. Through this event, the Minister reminded the people of the importance of exercise for the body.
“We need to spend at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week exercising, throughout our lives. This routine [exercises] will help regulate blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol in our blood system at a normal level. Inshaallah, if we do that we will not get strokes and cardiac arrest. So, don’t forget to live healthier, especially since running is a low-cost exercise,” Budi remarked.
In the meantime, Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid joined the 4.5K family category. Despite Merdeka Run being her first time in a running event, Meutya expressed her joy at finishing alongside the public.
“I’m so happy that we were running together, I barely felt the exhaustion because the people were so enthusiastic about it. The participants also range from children to the elderly,” stated the Minister.
Not only from the Ministers, interesting stories also emerged from other participants. One of them, Al, shared that he decided to join the 4.5K category to celebrate the Independence Month.
“The run was so much fun. Events like this are rare, so this is my first time. Not to mention that the moment coincides perfectly with the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence,” said Al.
Among the participants, there were several people who attended the Merdeka Run donning special attire. For instance, Mut — a participant in the 4.5K slow category — dressed in a red-and-white costume made from recycled materials to celebrate the Independence Day.
“I joined the run to stay healthy and so that Indonesia can advance and flourish more in the future,” Mut shared.
Not only filled with enthusiasm, the Merdeka Run also celebrated athletic achievements. In the 8.0K category, Pandu successfully secured the first place with 25 minutes and 14 seconds, while April secured the first place in the women’s division. Their achievements reflected the fresh energy that comes from the spirit of independence.
(BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (KAT/RAS/MMB)
