SERI ISKANDAR: After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the eighth edition of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) Convo Ride has made a remarkable comeback. Perak Tengah district officer Mohd Zaki Abdul Rahman started the cycling event with 500 participants. UTP academic deputy vice chancellor Prof Dr Hilmi Mukhtar and UTP 2023 convocation ceremony chairman Shamsina Shaharun also joined the event. The Convo Ride had 350 participants for the challenging 100km Fellowship Ride category and 150 participants for the Fun Ride covering 50km.
The event was meticulously coordinated, with over 70 traffic officers from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) ensuring the safety and smooth flow of the event, spanning from Seri Iskandar to Manong.
In addition to the exciting cycling experience, the Convo Ride also included a variety of side activities. Participants had the opportunity to engage in a 360-degree video experience and take part in a lucky draw with attractive prizes, including a top-of-the-line Samsung 50″ television.
Zulkarnan Abdul, chairman of the 2023 Convo Ride and popular YouTuber behind “Sembang Basikal is Free,” emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The purpose of this cycling event has been to attract cycling enthusiasts from all over Malaysia and abroad, including UTP alumni. It aims to encourage the community to prioritize health and fitness, provide technical challenges to cyclists, and allow participants to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Perak Tengah district in a secure environment. Despite promoting it on a smaller scale through the cycling community, this year’s participation has been overwhelming,” he added.
The Convo Ride, organized by UTP in conjunction with the university’s 2023 convocation ceremony on Oct 29 and 30, served as a vibrant platform for cycling enthusiasts to come together, promoting a healthy lifestyle and fostering an appreciation for Perak’s natural beauty. UTP’s commitment to organizing such events not only promotes community engagement but also highlights its dedication to holistic education and well-being. The success of this edition underscores the importance of community involvement and active, healthy living.
