Walk A Payung 2025 Unites Malaysians In Support Of Lupus Warriors

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Hi Everyone,
The spirit of solidarity was palpable on Sunday morning as more than 500 participants gathered at Laman Astaka, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa for Walk-A-Payung 2025, a symbolic 3KM walkathon organised by Persatuan SLE Malaysia (PSLEM), in partnership with Faculty of Medicine & HCTM, UKM in conjunction with World Lupus Day


Walking under umbrellas – a visual metaphor for protection against sun exposure, a major concern for lupus patients – participants showed their support for Malaysians living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Since its debut in 2007, Walk-A-Payung has become a flagship awareness event for PSLEM, reflecting its long-standing commitment to empowering lupus warriors and advocating for their needs. It is estimated that 43 out of 100,000 autoimmune cases are affected by SLE



“Lupus has no cure and can cause debilitating symptoms such as joint pain, organ damage, and extreme fatigue,” said Prof. Dr. Syahrul. “These challenges often affect not just health, but also job security, financial stability, and mental wellbeing. Walk-A-Payung is one way we can create public awareness and foster a sense of community for those impacted by this disease.”
The event was officiated by Dato’ Dr Norsiah Binti Ali, Pengarah, Gred Jusa B (M), Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia, and Prof. Dr. Syahrul Sazliyana Binti Shaharir, President of PSLEM and Consultant Rheumatologist at HCTM UKM. The morning began with an energising group Zumba session led by the Royal Fitness Squad from Universiti Malaya, followed by a ceremonial flag-off that marked the start of the 3KM walk


The key highlight of the event was the official launch of iLawan Lupus: A Patient Dialogue Book on SLE, developed by AstraZeneca. The book captures real patient voices and narratives, offering a vital platform for advocacy, empathy, and greater understanding of the lupus journey. This initiative serves as a vital resource to bridge communication gaps between patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers




Throughout the morning, attendees enjoyed a range of activities, including family-friendly entertainment, lucky draws, creative contests, and meet-and-greets with the 501st Legion Malaysia Garrison

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