The Sacred Heart Church(SHC)Walkathon 2026

By Felicia Aguan

KOTA SENTOSA — The Sacred Heart Church (SHC) Walkathon 2026 was organised as a parish fundraising and fellowship initiative with the theme “Building Together in Faith and Love – One Heart, One Mission.” Inspired by Ephesians 2:21–22, the Walkathon was envisioned as an opportunity for parishioners to come together in faith, love and shared responsibility while supporting the development of the parish.

The Walkathon was initially planned as an outdoor walking event involving parishioners from Sacred Heart Church, Kota Sentosa and St Mark, Batu Kawa, with an estimated participation of about 1,000 people. The initiative aimed to raise RM250,000 net for parish development, while also promoting healthy living, community bonding, stewardship and a stronger sense of belonging among parishioners.

However, due to the haze conditions, the original outdoor Walkathon was changed to an indoor programme at Dewan SJKC Sam Hap Hin, Kota Sentosa, to safeguard the health and well-being of all participants. Although the format of the event changed, its spirit and purpose remained unchanged — to grow together in communion, rooted in Christ’s love.

The day began with a Thanksgiving Mass, giving thanks to God for His blessings and for the support received from the parish community throughout the Walkathon fundraising initiative. As the programme coincided with Malaysia’s National Day on 31 August, the Mass was also offered in thanksgiving for the nation, praying for peace, unity, the well-being of all Malaysians, and God’s guidance and wisdom upon the leaders of our country.

The Mass served as the spiritual foundation for the day’s activities, reminding everyone that the parish’s development is not merely about buildings and facilities, but about building a stronger and more united community rooted in Christ. Following the Mass, everyone stood together to sing the national anthem, Negaraku, in a spirit of patriotism, gratitude and unity.

Before the officiating ceremony, the Rector of Sacred Heart Church, Rev Fr Felix Au Kheng Wee, delivered a warm and heartfelt speech. He expressed his regret that the Walkathon could not proceed as originally planned due to the haze situation, while thanking everyone for their understanding and continued support. He also extended his sincere appreciation to the parishioners who actively participated in the fundraising efforts, as well as to all participants, supporters and donors whose contributions made the event possible. Special thanks were also given to the Walkathon organising committee and all working committees for their dedication, teamwork and commitment in ensuring the success of the event despite the challenges faced.

Following the speech, an officiating ceremony was held in the presence of distinguished guests and parish leaders, including YB Wilfred Yap, representing YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, YB Chong Chieng Jen, and YB Dato’ Ir. Lo Khere Chiang. Their presence and support added great significance to the occasion and reflected the spirit of collaboration, unity and community partnership behind the Walkathon initiative.

The celebration continued with a breakfast fellowship, providing an opportunity for parishioners, guests, volunteers and committee members to gather, share a meal and strengthen relationships within the parish family.

The morning then continued with an energetic Aerodance session, bringing together participants of different ages in a joyful and lively atmosphere. The activity promoted healthy living while creating an enjoyable opportunity for parishioners to interact, laugh and celebrate their unity.

More than simply a fundraising initiative, the SHC Walkathon 2026 demonstrated the power of shared stewardship and collective responsibility. Every contribution, fundraising card, sponsorship, volunteer effort and act of support played a part in advancing the parish’s development and strengthening the bonds among its communities.

The change from an outdoor Walkathon to an indoor programme also became a reminder that the success of a parish initiative does not depend solely on its original plan. What matters most is the willingness of the parish community to adapt, support one another and continue moving forward together.

As we look towards the future development of Sacred Heart Church and its wider parish community, may the spirit of the SHC Walkathon 2026 continue to inspire us to build together — in faith, in love and in unity.
One Heart. One Mission. One Parish Family.