The run-up to Malaysia’s 68th Independence Day received a spirited and high-octane boost as the Malaysia Singapore Punjabi Automotive Enthusiasts (MSPAE) hosted their charity event, Fun Drive with Gurpuri Kids, at SSU Kelab Aman.
The gathering, held just a week before Hari Merdeka, brought together more than 30 children from the Gurpuri Foundation for a day filled with speed, excitement, and camaraderie. Staying true to its motto of Unity Through Motoring, MSPAE created an atmosphere that mirrored the national theme of unity, showcasing a fleet of cars and bikes that ranged from sleek modern supercars to cherished classics. For the children, many of whom had only dreamt of stepping inside such machines, the experience of being driven in them was nothing short of magical.
Beyond the thrill rides, the event also fulfilled a greater purpose, raising RM5,000 for the Gurpuri Foundation. The funds will go towards the foundation’s mission of providing shelter, education, and care to underprivileged children.
The programme began with a grand arrival and welcoming speeches, before moving into an afternoon of lively activities. The young guests took part in football and netball matches, a Hockey Shoot-Out, and various telematch games that kept the energy levels soaring. Adding to the day’s inspiration were appearances from two distinguished figures. National rally legend and multiple Malaysian Rally Champion, Karamjit Singh – affectionately known as the Flying Sikh – spoke to the children about perseverance and the pursuit of speed, while Dr Ranmeet Jassal, Miss Universe Malaysia Finalist, shared an empowering message that encouraged them to embrace independence and chase their ambitions.
For Gurpuri Foundation’s founder, Giani Sukhdaiv Singh Ji, the event was more than just entertainment. He described the outing as a meaningful experience that showed the children how deeply the community cared for them, while also igniting their sense of hope and possibility. He acknowledged that the RM5,000 donation would make a direct impact on their ongoing work, but it was the joy and excitement on the children’s faces that carried the true spirit of Merdeka.
MSPAE’s spokesperson, Harjit Dhillon, highlighted that the club’s passion for cars and bikes has always extended beyond motoring. Hosting this event ahead of Independence Day was a deliberate move, intended to strengthen the message that Merdeka’s essence lies in striving for excellence and celebrating unity across all layers of society. The children’s reactions, he noted, fuelled the club’s determination to continue using motoring as a platform for good. He also paid tribute to the 22 companies and families whose generous contributions helped turn the event into reality.
The memorable day concluded with a vibrant prize-giving ceremony and a group photoshoot, capturing smiles, laughter, and the sense of togetherness that defined the occasion. As the children departed for Gurpuri, they carried with them not only gifts and new friendships, but also dreams that may one day take them onto the open road – perfectly timed with the nation’s own celebration of freedom and hope.
