Law and community come together at Madang’s 2025 Fun Run

Youths of Madang turned out during the Trukai Fun Run last Sunday (NBC News)

Close to a thousand people turned out for the 2025 Trukai Fun Run in Madang on Sunday, dubbing itself as one of the most successful community events in the province in recent years.

The annual event brought together locals, business houses, schools, and government agencies in a celebration of unity, health, and community spirit.

A key highlight of the run was the strong presence of police and correctional service officers, who joined the public for the early morning fun run.

Acting Provincial Police Commander for Madang, Superintendent Robert Baim, expressed gratitude to the organizers for inviting law enforcement officers to participate.

Baim said this is one way of getting Police officers involved in community events that promote peace among the people. The Madang PPC said he hopes to see even greater participation from the law and order sector next year.

PPC Robert Baim (middle) presenting packets of rice to the 2nd person who made it to the finishing line. On the left is Kurere Matanzana (NBC News)

Director of the Madang Rural Development Foundation and co-host of the event, Kurere Matanzana, said he was pleased with the turnout and the growing support from the business community.

Matanzana said there was a good response from business houses in Madang, and their participation helped made the event a success.

He said Madang does not host many public events and community gatherings like the Trukai Fun Run are vital for encouraging unity and positive mindset changes, especially among young people.

Matanzana made special mention of Sigma Construction, Rookes Marine, Madang Lodge, BSP, Able Computing, as well as key stakeholders including the police, fire service, medical teams, and the town authority for their continued support.

The MRDF director confirmed that nearly 1,000 Trukai Fun Run T-shirts were sold this year in Madang alone, and the organizing committee is already looking forward to a bigger event in 2026.

He said the committee plans to involve more schools and children to broaden community engagement. He also extended the committee’s appreciation to the PNG Olympic Committee for its ongoing support in promoting sports and community wellness throughout the country.