Silent Run 5.0 Held in Miri, Championing an Inclusive Society for the Deaf

(Miri, 24th) Sarawak Minister of Transport and Senadin Assemblyman Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that 'Silent Run 5.0' is not merely a sports event, but also a meaningful social initiative aimed at raising public awareness of the deaf community and promoting inclusion, unity, and community integration.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 'Silent Run 5.0' Miri leg held at the Miri Artificial Lake this morning, he pointed out that the name 'Silent Run' itself conveys a powerful message—silence does not represent weakness; rather, it symbolizes strength, courage, resilience, and understanding, reminding people not only to listen with their ears, but also to feel with their hearts.

He said that the important message conveyed through such activities is that the deaf community is an indispensable part of the big Sarawak family, and everyone, regardless of ability, background, race, or religion, should have the chance to participate, contribute, and shine.

He noted that sports has always been an important platform for uniting people; when people run together and support each other, friendships, understanding, and respect can be built—this is the true spirit of an inclusive society.

Lee Kim Shin also praised the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association for continuously organizing such events, creating more visibility and support for the deaf community—not only promoting sports, but also fostering social acceptance, equal participation, and community empowerment.

He emphasized that such events help close the gap between the deaf and hearing people, promote interaction and mutual understanding, and, most importantly, remind society that inclusion should not just be a slogan but be implemented in daily life and public spaces.

He said the values advocated by the event align with Sarawak's "Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030" (PCDS 2030), aiming to create a society of economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
He pointed out that true development is not only reflected in infrastructure and economic growth, but also should prioritize people's well-being and create a caring and inclusive society.

“We must ensure that every Sarawakian, including persons with disabilities and the deaf community, can enjoy a better quality of life, more opportunities, and stronger community support.”

He added that events like 'Silent Run 5.0' perfectly reflect the inclusive spirit of PCDS 2030, promoting community participation and development in a simple yet meaningful way.

Speaking about Miri's development, he noted that Miri has evolved from a former oil city into an important economic, tourism, education, service, and logistics hub in northern Sarawak. The state government is also continuously promoting various initiatives to strengthen transport connectivity, infrastructure, and smart city development.

He said that as the Transport Minister, he believes that "mobility" is not just about vehicles and roads, but also concerns accessibility, safety, dignity, and participation. Therefore, urban planning must take into consideration the needs of people with disabilities, the elderly, children, and different groups to create a truly inclusive urban environment.

He also mentioned that the state government, through people-oriented policies such as 'Sarawakku Sayang', demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of the people and emphasizes the principle of 'No One Left Behind', ensuring that all groups benefit from development outcomes.

Lee Kim Shin pointed out that inclusion is not only the government's responsibility, but also requires the joint efforts of families, associations, schools, businesses, and all sectors of society.

He praised Miri for always having a strong community spirit. This event once again demonstrates that Miri is not only a vibrant city, but also a caring and inclusive one.

He thanked all participants, volunteers, sign language interpreters, sponsors, and partners for their support, and congratulated the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association for the successful organization of the event, encouraging continued advancement of the deaf community through sports.