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SANDAKAN: After a nine-year hiatus, Walk-a-Payung 2025 made a meaningful return to Sandakan, bringing together the community in a heart-warming display of unity and compassion. 

The event held on Sunday registered 800 participants, with over 400 joining the symbolic walk in solidarity with individuals living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

Organised by the Persatuan SLE Malaysia (PSLEM) Sabah Chapter in collaboration with the Lions Club of Sandakan Selingan, the event transformed SMK Convent St. Cecilia into a sea of purple umbrellas and participants clad in purple T-shirts which is the symbolic colour of lupus awareness representing courage, hope, and healing.

The event was officiated by Member of Parliament for Sandakan, Vivian Wong who commended the organisers for their dedication to patient welfare and public education.

“This programme is not only about fundraising, but also about empathy. Walking together under umbrellas reflects both the daily reality of lupus patients who must shield themselves from sunlight and the unity, compassion, and hope that define a caring community, “ she said. 

Meanwhile, President of PSLEM Sabah Chapter, Geoffrey Sinn expressed heartfelt appreciation to sponsors, donors, partners, and volunteers.

“Walk-a-Payung is more than an awareness event, it is a movement of empathy and understanding. 

“Every open umbrella today represents love, protection, and hope for the lupus community. We are deeply grateful for Sandakan’s overwhelming support,” he said. 

Following the officiation, participants filled the streets in a vibrant parade of purple umbrellas, a colourful testament to resilience and togetherness.

Among the highlights of the event included free community health screening, umbrella decoration contest and zumba. 

For the record, the event was first introduced in Sandakan in 2012 , received an overwhelming response in 2016 and has since remained PSLEM Sabah Chapter’s signature lupus awareness and fundraising programme. 

The 2025 edition once again reaffirmed the power of compassion and community by walking together under one umbrella of love and hope.