On a bright Sunday morning, over 500 participants gathered at Laman Astaka, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa for Walk-A-Payung 2025, a meaningful 3KM walkathon organised by Persatuan SLE Malaysia (PSLEM) in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine and Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), UKM. This event was held in conjunction with World Lupus Day to raise awareness about Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease affecting many Malaysians.
The participants walked under umbrellas, symbolising protection against sun exposure a significant challenge for those living with lupus. This visual showed the collective support and solidarity for Malaysians battling SLE, a condition that affects an estimated 43 out of every 100,000 people.
Since its inception in 2007, Walk-A-Payung has become PSLEM’s flagship event, highlighting their ongoing dedication to empowering lupus warriors and advocating for their needs. Prof. Dr. Syahrul Sazliyana Binti Shaharir, President of PSLEM and Consultant Rheumatologist at HCTM UKM, explained, “Lupus has no cure and causes debilitating symptoms like joint pain, organ damage, and extreme fatigue. It impacts not only health but also a patient’s job, finances, and mental wellbeing. Events like Walk-A-Payung help raise public awareness and build a supportive community.”
The event was officially launched by Dato’ Dr. Norsiah Binti Ali, Director of the Ministry of Health Malaysia. The morning started with an energising group Zumba session led by the Royal Fitness Squad from Universiti Malaya, followed by a ceremonial flag-off to start the walk.
A key highlight was the launch of iLawan Lupus: A Patient Dialogue Book on SLE, developed by AstraZeneca. The book shares real-life stories from lupus patients, providing a platform for empathy, advocacy, and better understanding between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
Participants also enjoyed family-friendly activities, lucky draws, creative contests, and meet-and-greet sessions with members of the 501st Legion Malaysia Garrison, adding a fun and interactive atmosphere to the meaningful event.
Walk-A-Payung 2025 successfully united Malaysians in support of lupus warriors, strengthening awareness and community ties in the fight against this challenging disease.
