This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily on July 30, 2018

A universal rule is that “good deeds are contagious”. And the staff of property group MKH Bhd shares this mantra, which is why they are eager to take part in The Edge Kuala Lumpur Rat Race.

“I entered for the good cause the event is supporting,” said MKH deputy property director Datuk Kenneth Chen. “It is a good way to raise awareness of the inequality in the real world and how we can contribute to make things better.”

For the team, the best possible outcome of their participation would be more public participation and “more generosity” for the needy and disadvantaged.

“I believe running for charity is admirable; it is done for the greater good of society,” said Vincent Chen. “What I hope to see is that more Malaysians from all walks of life get involved in good works without any prejudice.”

Kenneth said he hopes events like the Rat Race will create confidence “through the removal of questionable charitable bodies that are taking advantage of people’s kindness, which diminishes it”.

Kenneth, who has entered the race for the third time, is leading the team in the Open category this year in his first race on the challenging Padang Merbok course.

For Daniel Yeap and Vincent, one of the highlights of the event will be the team spirit and cheering on the day.

“I hope to make some memories here,” said Vincent. “I am looking forward to the festive atmosphere of the event.”

First-time runner Siti Nabilah, a top long-distance runner in her university days, said: “I train regularly to build strength and stamina by entering several half-marathons. Hopefully, I will be one of the winners and I hope my participation also motivates my peers and colleagues.”