In a lively showcase of youthful exuberance and eco-passion, 300 kids, aged 4 to 12, laced up their sneakers to hit the tracks for the Kids Eco Dash fun run extravaganza at Farm Fresh UPM Serdang. Racing along both road and gravel routes, the event featured three exciting categories – Caterpillar (600 metre), Rabbit (1 kilometre), and Tiger (1.5 kilometres), ensuring a dynamic participation for children of all fitness levels.

The Kids Eco Dash 2023, a kids only fun run, wasn’t just about running; it was a thrilling journey designed to give youngsters a taste of the exhilaration that comes with a “big race.” More than just a race, the event championed the significance of outdoor play and a deep appreciation for the environment. From tire obstacles to an army crawl, participants not only had a blast but also engaged in exciting physical activities.

As the young racers and their parents dashed through the course, they were treated to a breathtaking view of animals—cows, geese, deers, and a lively array of chickens—creating a vibrant spectacle against the natural beauty of Farm Fresh UPM Serdang.

Mohamed Amin Yahya, Senior Director, Domestic & Event, Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia, shared his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We threw our support behind the Kids Eco Dash because we believe in the power of playful learning. This event is a fantastic way to infuse knowledge into our children’s lives while they’re having a blast. It’s not just a run; it’s a journey of discovery and joy for our future generation.” The event, conducted in conjunction with Visit Malaysia, aimed to not only nurture children but also promote local tourism. “Insya-Allah (if God will), with the success of this event, we hope that it will return again next year.”

Azura Zainol Abidin, founder of Tough Gorilla and organiser of the event, shed light on the event’s broader goals, saying, “We’re on a mission to inspire parents with young adventurers to dive into outdoor activities that foster a genuine love for the environment. It’s about creating platforms for families to bond, socialize, and revel in these shared moments.” Azura emphasised the event’s role in building a compassionate society and instilling positive recreational habits for sustainable eco-tourism.

Adding to the excitement, all participants and their families enjoyed complimentary access to the myriad activities at Farm Fresh UPM Serdang—an agrotourism gem born from the collaboration between Universiti Putra Malaysia and Farm Fresh, the nation’s dairy maestros.

Farm Fresh UPM Serdang offers a delightful fusion of fun and education. From tractor joyrides and a sneak peek into the milking process accompanied by jazz tunes to encounters with various animals at the Furry Friends Playground, visitors also have the chance to relish fresh dairy products like milk, yogurt, and ice cream, all crafted from the farm’s own cows. Pusat Edutourism, housed on the premises, aims to spark interest among students and young minds in the dairy industry and agriculture.

Open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, excluding Mondays, Farm Fresh UPM Serdang not only captivates with its charm but also underscores the immense potential of events like the Kids Eco Dash in fostering a genuine love for nature, physical activity, and community camaraderie among the younger generation.