With great power comes great responsibility. This famous quote embodies the spirit of the many well-known personalities who partook in the President’s Challenge Walkathon 2024. From former national goalkeeper Hassan Sunny to actor Pierre Png, they stepped up alongside Guest of Honour President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to lend their support to the meaningful cause.
Held on Sunday, 6 October 2024, Mediacorp hosted the first President’s Challenge Walkathon, the event raised $9,699,979 for 65 beneficiaries by the end of the night. The 12-hour relay featured two teams clocking over 90 kilometres in two routes, involving representatives and beneficiaries from various social service agencies as well as corporate partners.
A Meaningful Cause
For Hassan, this cause holds a special significance as it is a long-standing initiative he has admired since his youth. Hassan had always wanted to volunteer and take part in charity work, making him appreciative to be part of such a cause.
In particular, as the goalkeeper facing off against President Tharman in a penalty shootout in the President’s Challenge Night 2024, Hassan had the unique opportunity to combine his athletic prowess with his dedication to a meaningful cause. The friendly competition not only showcased his skills but also highlighted the spirit of camaraderie that the event embodied.
Guest of Honour President Tharman won against Hassan, with a close score of 3-2.
Commitment to Giving Back to the Community
Aiming to rally the community to come together in demonstration of support for fundraising efforts for the beneficiaries of the President’s Challenge, Hassan underscores the importance of a joint effort. Noting that the President’s Challenge has been a cause ongoing for several years, his desire to be involved in charity work stems from an appreciation of the impact of the cause.
“(It is) Definitely one event that I would like to be involved in. Since there’s an opportunity for me to be involved in this event, I’m so happy,” emphasises Hassan. This enthusiasm for community engagement is a sentiment echoed by Pierre, who also believes in the power of collective action.
The Power of Acts of Kindness
Large-scale events like the President’s Challenge Walkathon are not the only way individuals can make a difference. Highlighting that small acts of kindness can often have a profound impact, both Hassan and Pierre emphasise the power that small acts of kindness can have on both individuals and communities.
Prior to the President’s Challenge, Pierre had been active in giving back to the community. In June 2015, he showed support for Hair for Hope by shaving his hair to show support towards people diagnosed with cancer and their families. Showing people with cancer that they are not alone, Pierre hoped to emphasise that there are people who care about them despite their obstacles.
“It’s an opportunity to spread the word of inclusivity and compassion,” mentioned Pierre when asked about his choice to participate in the President’s Challenge Walkathon. His stance highlighted that charity need not always be monetary.
Hassan is also no stranger to performing acts of kindness. Having previously donated part of the money he received from China fans after his performance in the Singapore-Thailand World Cup Qualifier to Muhammadiyah Welfare Home, Hassan has seen firsthand the impact of contributing back to society.
“It was just an instinctive decision.. it was like something that I knew (that) I had to give back to the community,” stated Hassan.
Hassan sees the President’s Challenge Walkathon as more than just a charity event, it serves as an opportunity to inspire his audience to give back to the community. His hope is to make a difference in society.
“If I could have a small impact on societal change, that would be good enough.”
