“If you have a meaningful idea and the passion to bring people together, that’s already enough to begin.” – Organisers of Larian Merdeka Tokyo 2025
What began as a simple idea to continue a running tradition soon grew into something bigger. On 31st August 2025, 230 Malaysians in Japan gathered at Mizumoto Park in Tokyo for the first-ever Larian Merdeka Tokyo, a 6.8KM run held in celebration of Malaysia’s 68th National Day.
Back in Malaysia, the organisers were avid runners who often took part in symbolic runs where they ran 16.9km for Malaysia Day on 16 September and 31.8km in conjunction with Malaysia’s Independence Day on 31 August. Inspired by these meaningful traditions, they sought to bring the same idea to Japan.
As a minority group abroad with limited opportunities to gather, this initiative created a space for Malaysians in Tokyo to connect, celebrate and strengthen their sense of belonging.
The Power of Collaboration
The idea came about in April 2025 — which was less than five months to prepare before Merdeka Day — and with the support of the Embassy of Malaysia in Tokyo, the team was introduced to four key affiliates: Japan Graduates Association of Malaysia (JAGAM) Jepun, Kesatuan Melayu Jepun (KEMEJA), IMAN Jepun and the Malaysian Students’ Association Japan (MSAJ). This helped them expand their reach, boost credibility and gain the trust of potential sponsors.
Equally important was MyHeart, which provided a comprehensive platform for “collaboration without borders.” Not only did the MyHeart platform open up opportunities for collaboration between the Malaysian individuals and Malaysian associations based in Japan they provided support to the organisers to amplify the event’s reach to all of MyHeart’s members through its platform as well as serving as a sort of event management tool in which the organisers could use to plan, organise and garner event sign-ups from like-minded Malaysians throughout Japan. Additionally, MyHeart offered further support by providing merchandise for the participants to take back as a token of appreciation for being part of a memorable occasion.
Although the organisers did not represent any formal organisation, all the support they received throughout the entire process empowered them to move forward with this run. It also encouraged them to continue more initiatives in the future, giving them the confidence, credibility and a sense of belonging to something bigger.
Recreating the Spirit of Merdeka in Tokyo
For the participants, celebrating Merdeka in Tokyo felt nostalgic yet empowering. The event brought together Malaysians of different backgrounds to run, cheer and wave the Jalur Gemilang in the heart of Japan.
Larian Merdeka Tokyo was more than just a run. For the organisers, it was a way to reconnect with their identity, culture and a chance to show that even far from home, the Malaysian spirit is alive and strong.
Challenges That Became Opportunities
The biggest hurdle for them was securing a suitable venue. The Japanese society places a strong emphasis on courtesy and respect for shared spaces which has led to multiple rejections from local authorities and park management. However, with persistence and proficiency in the Japanese language, the organisers managed to negotiate successfully.
After the event, the park management commended the group for their discipline, cleanliness and respect for the space. What began as a challenge became a proud moment, setting a new benchmark for the Malaysian community in Japan and positively contributing to Malaysia’s image abroad.
A Lasting Impact
The success of Larian Merdeka Tokyo left a lasting impression on both the organisers and participants. It reminded them that being Malaysian is not about where they are but who they are.
And their message to other Malaysians abroad?
“Just start! Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Passion and purpose are more important than perfection. Whether it’s a run, a cultural event or even a simple meal, every effort helps build a sense of belonging. We may be scattered across borders but we are united by our love for Malaysia.”
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