In celebration of its 55th anniversary, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) hosted a commemorative 5.5-kilometer walk on Saturday at Dataran Panggung Seni. Titled Langkah @5.5KM Jubli Zamrud, the event brought together more than 1,500 participants comprising students, alumni, academic staff, and administrative officers in a spirited demonstration of unity, health, and institutional pride.

The event was part of a larger lineup of activities under UKM’s Jubli Zamrud (Emerald Jubilee) celebration, marking the university’s founding in 1970 and its continuing legacy as one of Malaysia’s premier public research institutions. The symbolic distance of 5.5 kilometers represented five and a half decades of academic growth, national contribution, and community service.

Held in the early hours of the morning, the walk was officially launched with a flag-off ceremony led by YBhg. Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Abd. Razak, Chairman of UKM’s Board of Directors. Addressing the crowd before the event began, he emphasized the walk as more than a recreational activity, calling it “a shared step forward in honour of UKM’s journey — one that reflects the strength of our community and the legacy we continue to uphold.”

The route, which meandered through key landmarks across the Bangi campus, allowed participants to experience the university’s natural beauty and architectural heritage in a new, reflective way. Stations along the route featured checkpoints, water booths, and designated rest areas, ensuring the safety and comfort of all walkers regardless of age or fitness level.

Among those joining the walk were high-ranking university officials. YBhg. Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Gafor, Acting Vice-Chancellor, walked alongside students and staff, as did YBhg. Prof. Ts. Dr. Norinsan Kamil Othman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student and Alumni Affairs. YBrs. Tuan Haji Zanudin Mohd Daud, UKM Registrar and advisor for the event, was also present, together with YBrs. Encik Hazmir Zainal, Chief Librarian. Their active involvement sent a clear message about the leadership’s commitment to student well-being, campus cohesion, and community engagement.

In interviews with participants, the prevailing theme was gratitude — not just for the university’s history, but for the chance to experience togetherness after years of disruption caused by the pandemic.

Ahmad Faizal, a final-year engineering student,from the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment shared his feelings after completing the walk. “This isn’t just a symbolic event. It’s a chance to walk the same path, literally, with my professors, friends, and even alumni. As someone preparing to graduate, it made me think about my own UKM journey — the friends I made, the lessons I’ve learned, and what I’ll carry forward.”

Nur Aisyah Zulkifli, a staff member from the Faculty of Health Sciences, said the event highlighted the balance between work, wellness, and community. “We often talk about mental health and campus wellness in abstract terms. But this walk made it tangible. I saw students laughing with lecturers, admin staff mingling with alumni — it’s a rare kind of connection that goes beyond hierarchy.”

For UKM alumni, the event offered a chance to revisit campus and reconnect with their academic roots. Many brought their families along, turning the walk into a generational experience that included children, parents, and former classmates. Some wore vintage UKM T-shirts from decades past, while others posed for group photos at landmark locations such as Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Razak (DECTAR) and the Chancellery building.

Beyond its physical component, Langkah @5.5KM Jubli Zamrud symbolized UKM’s commitment to a holistic educational environment — one that nurtures the mind and body, and that views community as central to the academic experience.

The event also aligned with UKM’s broader push for sustainability and well-being. As part of the walk, reusable water bottles were distributed to reduce single-use plastic waste, and medical volunteers were stationed along the route to offer basic first aid and hydration. Organizers also encouraged participants to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #JubliZamrudUKM, generating engagement and visibility for the celebration beyond campus borders.

The walk culminated in a closing gathering at the starting point, where participants received certificates of appreciation, light refreshments, and a commemorative photo session. Some lingered to exchange stories, meet former lecturers, or simply take in the celebratory mood with friends under the morning sun.

UKM’s Jubli Zamrud series continues throughout the year, featuring academic colloquia, cultural showcases, alumni reunions, and student-led initiatives that reflect the university’s mission of advancing knowledge while building a resilient, inclusive campus community.

As the university looks ahead to its future, events like this 5.5KM walk serve not only to mark historical milestones, but to deepen the sense of connection that binds its diverse community together.

For ongoing updates on UKM’s 55th anniversary events, visit www.ukm.my or follow the official Instagram page.