Participants of all age taking part in a bicyclethon organised by the Housing Development Department, Ministry of Development to mark World Habitat Day yesterday. Picture: BT
SOME 300 cyclists took to the street yesterday in a bicyclethon, an outdoor activity which was organised by the Housing Development Department of the Ministry of Development to mark World Habitat Day.
Cyclists at the department’s parking area as early as 7am and began with a light aerobic exercise.
Minister of Development Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, who was among the participants, started off the event which took cyclists along the 44km route, starting at the headquarters.
Traffic gave way to the storm of cyclists as they made their way, passing through four checkpoints at Kg Jangsak, Jalan Jerudong, Tungku Beach and Tungku Link Highway, before finally reaching the finish line at the headquarters. The bicyclethon took roughly two hours.
Open to all cycling enthusiasts in the country, the event was held to enhance the harmony, cooperation and unity among officers. It also aimed to create awareness on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.
Safety was a priority in the bicyclethon as the cyclists were escorted by police motorcycles through the streets, accompanied by safety vehicles.
One of the participants, who wished to be known as Nizam said that activities like this was a good opportunity for cyclists in Brunei.
“I hope to see more of this being held in the Sultanate and see Bruneians having a cycling culture so the people can live healthier. We already have a low pollution nation, so why not take advantage of the clean air and enjoy this kind of sport?” he added. “Regardless of the celebration or who organised it, I would certainly participate in any bicycle expeditions. This is one activity that I can enjoy along with my friends, and it is something more productive to do on a Sunday instead of being at home lazing all day,” said Johari Hj Masli, an undergraduate.
He added, “I would gather all my colleagues and join any sports activities such as this whenever I see an advertisement for a sport event that is coming up soon, be it cycling, hiking or running activities.”
“This is not something I usually do, but after today I realised how exciting cycling can be, so I think I want to adapt this in my lifestyle and as part of my weekly fitness programme that my family and I can enjoy,” said Mohd Khairuddin, a civil servant.
“I hope to see more proper cycling lanes being built in the country. I am encouraging two of my children to cycle so I want to see them ride their bikes on those lanes when they grow up and encourage others in their generation to do the same,” said 31-year-old Hj Kassim Hj Mansor, a father of four. The Brunei Times
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