Kuala lumpur: It's only 7 am and the grounds of the Sultan Azlan Shah Ministry of Health Training Institute (ILKKM SAS), the venue for the Patriot Merdeka Run, was already teeming with about 2,000 participants from all walks of life, with many turning up with their families, including children, to celebrate the spirit of patriotism in conjunction with the launch of 2026 National Month and the Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign (MPBKKJG 2026). According to BERNAMA News Agency, the atmosphere grew even livelier as participants started the morning with a mass aerobics session before gathering to wave the Jalur Gemilang as a symbol of unity and love for the nation. Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah flagged off the participants at 7.30 am for the 2.5-kilometre (km) fun run, with the Jalur Gemilang prominently displayed along the entire route. The antics of parents leading their small children, participants dressed in outfits inspired by the colours of the Jalur Gemilang, and enthusi astic cheers between participants highlighted the atmosphere of harmony and goodwill, thus making the event a platform for strengthening community ties. The fun run was organised not only to encourage a healthy lifestyle but also to foster patriotism through community participation, regardless of age or background. The Patriot Merdeka Run is among the opening events marking the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM 2026) celebrations, with organisers hoping that such programmes will continue to nurture unity and deepen public appreciation of the meaning of independence. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to officiate the launch of the celebrations at 10 am today.