10,000 runners take part in Yellow Ribbon Prison Run

SINGAPORE: Some 10,000 people on Sunday took part in the Yellow Ribbon Prison Run at the Upper Changi Road area to show their support for the reintegration of inmates and ex—offenders back into society.

The theme was ’The Road to Acceptance’.

Joining them in the worthy cause was Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan—Jin.

Among the participants was 53—year—old Madam Jenap Said who ran a 12—hour personal marathon and raised over S$120,000 for her event.

Together with other supporters, the Yellow Ribbon Fund raised a total of S$170,000 this year.

"It is a promise to my friend. When her husband was not beside her for the past few years, she had to take care of the family and children. I saw how tough (it was for her)... Yellow Ribbon came and helped her," said Madam Jenap Said.

"It’s to raise awareness to give ex—offenders a second chance, and I like the idea of giving them acceptance into society," said another runner.

At Chua Chu Kang, some 3,000 residents took part in a farm walk and run to enhance community bonding.

Members of Parliament for Chua Chu Kang GRC and Hong Kah North joined the residents.

The residents passed through the Sungei Tengah area and the Chua Chu Kang estate.

Organisers said the event provided a platform for families to bond together.

The tagline ’One B.I.G. Family’ encompasses the words ’Beautiful’, ’Inclusive’ and ’Graciousness’.

— CNA/cc