More than 2,400 participants are expected to join the fourth edition of the Perpaduan Charity Hike 2026 (PCH26), with registration now open.
Penang International Hikers (PIH) chairman “Jungle” Sim Thean Sang is aiming to match or surpass last year’s turnout of 2,400, hoping for between 2,400 and 2,500 participants.
The event has grown steadily since launching with 1,100 participants in 2023, rising to 1,700 in 2024 and 2,400 last year. Schools and corporate bodies have driven much of the increase.
“The hike brings together students, working adults, families and corporate teams to promote an active lifestyle, strengthen community bonds and foster social responsibility,” Sim said.
Students taking part will earn state-level physical, sports and co-curricular activities assessment (PAJSK) scores.
Most importantly, the event raises funds for 10 charitable organisations across Penang and Seberang Perai.
The beneficiary welfare homes and associations are Pusat Jagaan Persekutuan Kebajikan Anak-Anak Yatim Islam Pulau Pinang (boys and girls), Persatuan Kebajikan Bersikap Murah Hati Butterworth Seberang Perai Utara, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Insan Penyayang Pulau Pinang and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Simpang Ampat Pulau Pinang.
Other recipients include Shan Children’s Home, Pusat Jagaan Pertubuhan Kebajikan Rumah Mentari, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Vallal Malaysia, Shine Home Association Bukit Mertajam Penang and Pertubuhan Rumah Ru Yi Pulau Pinang.
Scheduled for 21 June, the hike will be flagged off at Penang City Park at 6am. It features two categories – public (5km and 8km) and student (3km and 5km).
PIH, which now has 381 members, has evolved beyond weekly hikes into organising larger community and charity-driven events.
“As our group has grown in popularity, we want to use hiking as a platform to raise funds for the less fortunate. It is about turning a hobby into something meaningful,” Sim said.
Source: The Star
