On June 29, 2024, 200 enthusiastic participants, including students from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), gathered for the Public Transport Marathon, an innovative event hosted by the Operation Smile Club (OSC) from APU.

Held at the LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, this initiative aimed to promote the use of public transport while raising awareness of the need to reduce global emissions, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13).

The Public Transport Marathon, open to the public, brought together 40 teams, encouraging sustainable travel habits among all participants.

LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, strategically chosen for its proximity to LRT and MRT stations, generously sponsored the venue. RapidKL played a significant role in this eco-friendly adventure by offering MyCity passes at a rate of RM6 per day for Malaysians and RM10 per day for foreign participants. These passes provided unlimited city-wide travel, helping to lower transportation costs.

Participants were allowed to explore 11 different stations and engage in fun activities at nearby attractions while promoting both public transport usage and local tourism. The day was filled with enriching experiences as participants visited key attraction points near the RapidKL stations, participating in activities that fostered team spirit and environmental awareness. The hands-on approach allowed participants to experience firsthand the benefits of using public transport and appreciate its positive impact on the environment.

The event also featured a competitive element, with the winning team receiving a cash prize of RM1,000. The Operation Smile Club (OSC) has a history of supporting sustainability efforts, having previously donated RM1,500 to the Free Tree Society for tree planting initiatives and another RM1,500 to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to support animal shelter maintenance.

Brendan Chiah, an alumnus of APU with a BA (Hons) in Computer Science specialising in Data Analytics, shared his thoughts: “Initially, I wasn't hyped about PTM 2024, having attended many university events. But seeing the event at Lalaport, organised by the Operation Smile Club, was impressive. The open-world design encouraged exploring KL, and the tasks highlighted teamwork. We won not by solving puzzles, but by understanding and connecting."

Mohammed Muneeb Shaikh, a first-year BA (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security) international student from India, was part of the organising committee. He shared, “I was inspired by everyone's enthusiasm and enjoyed helping and interacting with so many people. The day's energy and teamwork were great, and I'm proud to have contributed to an event that showcased the importance of our public transport system.”

Mahishkumar Ganeson, a second-year Bachelor in Petroleum Engineering (Hons) student at APU, shared his observations: “Enthusiastic runners of all ages and backgrounds came together for the well-organised public marathon competition. Throughout the race, competitors showed outstanding sportsmanship and resolve, pushing themselves to meet personal objectives. It was a great occasion that encouraged a feeling of camaraderie and constructive rivalry among all those engaged.”

Dalton Gan, a Year Two student of APU majoring in BA (Hons) in Software Engineering, shared: “From meeting new friends to exploring KL together and winning the public marathon together, this has truly been an amazing ride. Through this event, I've learned about so many new spots in KL and their historical significance. I hope more people can join this event so they can come to appreciate the convenience that public transport brings to us and the beauty of Malaysia.”

The event concluded with a strong sense of community and a renewed commitment to sustainability. The collaboration with RapidKL and the support from LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre exemplified the potential for public-private partnerships in driving positive environmental change.

As these 200 participants return to their daily lives, they carry with them the knowledge and experiences gained from this initiative, ready to advocate for and practice more sustainable travel habits.

President of Operation Smile Club, Ho See Hui, reflected: "I am thrilled with how well the Public Transport Marathon 2024 turned out. It was great to see students and the community come together for this cause. This event not only showed off the perks of public transport but also brought participants closer together. I believe our efforts will inspire more sustainable habits in daily life. Big thanks to our committee, especially project manager Jack Ser, and to everyone who joined in and made this event so special!"

Mr Gurpardeep Singh, the Chief Operating Officer of APU concluded, “The Public Transport Marathon not only encouraged the use of public transport but also sparked a larger conversation on how individual actions can contribute to global efforts in combating climate change. Together, we can make a difference and work towards a greener, more sustainable future for Malaysia.”