Pantai Malindo: The Hidden Beach That's About to Have Its Moment

There's a version of Penang most tourists never see. No white sand, no beach clubs, no crowds fighting for the same sunset photo. Just mangroves, fishing boats, and a coastline so quiet it feels like you've stumbled onto something you weren't supposed to find.

That's Pantai Malindo.

Tucked into Balik Pulau on the island's southwestern edge, this stretch of coast sits right where the Sungai Burong river spills into the sea, near Kampung Nelayan Kuala Sungai Burung. It's not on the typical Penang itinerary, no signage screaming for attention, no queue for parking. Just locals who've kept it close for years: fishermen heading out at dawn, cyclists chasing the flat coastal roads, and the occasional photographer who knows exactly when to show up for that golden-hour light bouncing off the mudflats.

Ask anyone who's actually been and they'll tell you the same thing, it's not what you'd call a "classic" beach. No swimming, no sunbathing. It's raw. A little muddy if you're not careful. But that's the whole point. Out past Pulau Betong on the horizon, some say you can almost see all the way to Sumatra on a clear evening,  which might be exactly where the name "Malindo" comes from, a quiet nod to Malaysia and Indonesia sitting across the same water.

For years, this was Penang's best-kept secret. A place you had to already know about.

That's changing.

The Coastline Is Getting a Spotlight, and a Start Line

What used to be untouched mangrove coastline has quietly turned into one of Penang's most runner-friendly roads, flat, freshly paved, low-traffic, and framed by nothing but greenery and agriculture instead of buildings and traffic lights. Cyclists have known about it for a while. Runners have caught on too, and they keep coming back.

Pantai Malindo Half Marathon returns for its 3rd edition in 2027!

Two editions in, and this coastline has already built a name for itself among runners who know a good route when they see one. This year, slots are limited to 1,000, so if you've been meaning to join, this is the one to lock in.

The details:

• 📅 31st January 2027, 5:00 AM
• 📍 SRJK(C) Yu Chye, Penang
• 🏃 21km & 10km categories
• 🎽 T-shirt, medal, bib, timing chip, goodie bag, e-certificate + top 5 cash prizes
• ⏳ Registration closes 15th December 2026, or once slots run out

Whether you've been curious about Pantai Malindo for years or you're only just hearing about it now, this is your reason to finally go, and to say you were there for the very first one.

👉 Click Here to Register

Pantai Malindo Half Marathon 2026 Highlights

Sources: Loka.my, Penang Traveltips, Trip.com, Travel2Penang, and the official Howei event page.

China's special education college entrance examination results were recently released, and Guo Bin, a 19-year-old from Shanxi who made national headlines years ago after being permanently blinded in a brutal attack, scored 721 out of 800, ranking first in his major. He has been admitted to Changchun University, where he plans to pursue a double degree in Computer Science and Technology, as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine, becoming a blind double-degree university student.

According to reports, on August 24, 2013, six-year-old Guo Bin was playing outside his home in Taiyuan, Shanxi, when a stranger lured him to a remote area and brutally attacked him, gouging out both his eyes and leaving him permanently blind.

After being stabilized at a Shanxi eye hospital, Guo Bin traveled to Shenzhen, where a team led by Hong Kong ophthalmologist Lin Shunchao performed prosthetic eye implant surgery. In July 2014, he began rehabilitation training.

Later that year, Zhou Dejun, then deputy principal of a school for blind children in Wuhan, read about Guo Bin's story and personally visited him in hospital, bringing along a blind student to encourage him with real lived experience, and invited him to study in Wuhan. "Teacher Zhang Long's warm embrace and the school's genuine sincerity made us decide to stay in Wuhan," said Guo Bin's mother, Wang Wenli.

When he first arrived in Wuhan, Guo Bin was shy and easily frightened. Zhang Long, then a music teacher, volunteered to be his homeroom teacher through both primary and middle school, staying by his side for 12 years of schooling. When the exam results came in, Zhang Long, whom Guo Bin calls "mom", wept with joy: "Every point represents sweat and persistence far beyond what an ordinary person could manage. He's been through so much."

Losing his sight made his academic path far harder than for most students. Unable to read printed text or work through problems visually, he had to repeatedly trace Braille and mentally rework solutions that sighted students could grasp at a glance.

Zheng Xiaokun, his senior-year math teacher at the Wuhan school for the blind, praised him highly: "His results are well-earned — they came from relentless self-discipline and effort, day after day. He'd work through a single problem again and again until he found multiple ways to solve it, and he was always patient about helping classmates who were stuck."

Beyond academics, Guo Bin also found healing through music. In 2015, encouraged by Zhang Long, he and his classmates formed Hubei's first electric band made up of blind musicians, VMV Band, where he plays bass. Zhang Long brought in a fellow alumnus from the Wuhan Conservatory of Music, Cai Tao, to teach instruments; since the students couldn't see, Cai had them feel the shape of his hands to understand finger spacing and movement.

Zhang Long once told him: "There's no shortcut to learning an instrument, it just takes repeated, disciplined practice." Since then, Guo Bin has set his alarm for 4:30am, practicing at home for over an hour before school each day. He now plays four instruments. The band has performed publicly several times, with videos racking up nearly 100,000 likes.

Guo Bin says his biggest wish is to return to the Wuhan school for the blind after finishing his studies, to teach there and use his own experience to support other visually impaired children, passing on the same warmth and kindness he received.

Source: iLifePost
 

Penang Doctors Saddle Up for Autism: MMA Penang to Host Inaugural Charity Cycling Ride on 5 July 2026

GEORGE TOWN, PENANG, 9 June 2026

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Penang Branch has announced its inaugural MMA Penang Charity Cycling 2026,  a community-driven cycling event aimed at raising awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and generating funds for the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM) and other autism-related organisations. The event was unveiled at a press conference held in George Town on 9 June 2026, drawing widespread support from healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, cycling communities, and state government representatives.

Pedalling for a Purpose

Themed "Pedal for a Purpose,  Ride for Autism", the event is scheduled for Sunday, 5 July 2026, beginning at 7.00 AM at Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang. Participants will take on a scenic 24km coastal ride, winding through some of Penang's most iconic waterfront routes. The ride is open to all,  from seasoned cyclists to passionate advocates simply looking to make a difference.

The event will bring together a broad cross-section of the community, including healthcare professionals, corporate partners, cycling enthusiasts, non-governmental organisations, and families affected by autism.

State Government Lends Its Support

Penang State EXCO for Youth, Sports and Health, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, was among the key guests at the press conference and expressed his strong endorsement for the initiative. Speaking at the event, Gooi underscored that the ride serves a purpose far greater than sport.

"It aims to raise awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder, while promoting healthy living, inclusivity and stronger community engagement," said Gooi.

Gooi acknowledged that while public awareness of autism has grown significantly in recent years, with more families seeking early diagnosis, intervention and support, there is still much more to be done in building a society that is fully understanding and inclusive of individuals on the autism spectrum.

"For many families, the journey of raising a child with autism comes with unique challenges. As a community, we must continue to foster greater awareness and understanding so that individuals with autism are given every opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive in society," he added.

MMA Penang Calls on the Public to Ride or Sponsor

MMA Penang Chairman and Organising Chairman Datuk Dr Parmjit Singh extended a warm invitation to the public, encouraging participation and sponsorship alike. While no specific fundraising target was set, the organisers expressed hope for a strong showing of community solidarity.

"Although we've not set any target, we hope to draw as many riders and sponsors as possible," said Datuk Dr Parmjit.

The press conference was also attended by MMA Penang Vice-Chairman Dr Divagar Varatharaju, MMA Penang Committee Member Dr Jai Tejani, Howei representative Samuel Shee, Brompton Cycling representative Andy, Penang Adventurers' Club representative Wong Pang Kong, and NASOM Chairman Mano Gobindra Gandhi, reflecting the broad coalition of supporters behind the event.

About NASOM

NASOM, the National Autism Society of Malaysia, is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to providing education, training, and support services for individuals with autism and their families across Malaysia. Funds raised from the MMA Penang Charity Cycling 2026 will directly support NASOM's programmes and other autism-focused organisations in the country.

Join the Ride:  Register Now on Howei!

Want to be part of something meaningful? Whether you are a cycling enthusiast, a healthcare advocate, or simply someone who cares about autism awareness, this ride is for you.

📅  Date: 5 July 2026

⏰  Time: 7.00 AM

📍  Start/Finish: Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang

🚴  Distance: 24km Scenic Coastal Ride

🎁  Entitlements: Event T-shirt, Finisher Medal & Lucky Draw

Registration is now open. Secure your slot today and ride for a purpose!

👉  Register here: https://howei.com/registration/2099/token/RideforAutism26A

Tennis vs Pickleball: Which Sport Is Better for a Longer, Healthier Life?

If you're looking for a fun way to stay active while improving your long-term health, racquet sports may be one of the best choices available. In recent years, tennis and pickleball have become increasingly popular among people of all ages, not only for recreation but also for their potential health benefits.

But when it comes to longevity, which sport has the advantage?

The Connection Between Racquet Sports and Longevity

Research consistently shows that regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve cardiovascular health, maintain muscle strength, and support mental well-being. Among various forms of exercise, racquet sports have stood out as some of the most effective activities associated with longer life expectancy.

Unlike many solo workouts, racquet sports combine physical movement, strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, and social interaction—all of which contribute to overall health and healthy aging.

Why Tennis Is Often Considered the Longevity Champion

According to multiple long-term studies, tennis has been linked to some of the largest increases in life expectancy among recreational sports participants.

Tennis offers:

• High cardiovascular intensity

• Full-body muscle engagement

• Improved agility, balance, and coordination

• Enhanced bone density through weight-bearing movements

• Strong cognitive stimulation through strategy and decision-making

The larger court size and continuous movement required during matches provide an effective aerobic workout that challenges both the heart and muscles. This combination may explain why tennis is frequently associated with significant longevity benefits.

Where Pickleball Shines

While tennis may provide greater physical demands, pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world for good reason.

Pickleball offers:

• A beginner-friendly learning curve

• Lower-impact movement on the joints

• Smaller court size requiring less running

• Strong social interaction and community engagement

• Quick reaction-based gameplay that stimulates cognitive function

Because it is easier to learn and less physically demanding, pickleball can be a great option for older adults, beginners, or individuals returning to exercise after a long break.

The Mental Benefits of Both Sports

Longevity is not only about physical fitness. Mental and cognitive health play an equally important role.

Both tennis and pickleball require players to:

• Anticipate opponents' moves

• Make split-second decisions

• Develop game strategies

• Maintain focus under pressure

These mental challenges help keep the brain active and engaged. Additionally, the social aspect of playing with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and support emotional well-being.

Injury Risks to Consider

Like any physical activity, both sports carry some risk of injury.

Common tennis-related injuries include:

• Tennis elbow

• Shoulder strain

• Knee stress from repetitive movements

Common pickleball-related injuries include:

• Sprains and strains

• Falls and fractures

• Joint discomfort from sudden directional changes

Proper warm-ups, stretching, hydration, and using suitable equipment can help reduce injury risk regardless of which sport you choose.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If your goal is to maximize physical fitness and you enjoy a more demanding workout, tennis may offer the greatest overall longevity benefits.

However, if you're looking for a sport that is easier to learn, highly social, and more accessible for beginners, pickleball can still provide substantial health advantages while encouraging consistent physical activity.

Ultimately, the best sport for longevity is the one you enjoy enough to play regularly.

Whether you're serving aces on the tennis court or enjoying friendly rallies on the pickleball court, staying active, connected, and engaged is what truly contributes to a longer and healthier life.

Final Thoughts

You don't need to be a professional athlete to enjoy the benefits of racquet sports. Both tennis and pickleball provide an enjoyable way to improve cardiovascular health, maintain physical fitness, sharpen cognitive skills, and build meaningful social connections.

Instead of focusing solely on which sport is "better," consider which one fits your lifestyle, fitness level, and interests. Consistency is often the most important factor when it comes to long-term health and longevity.

Reference: Verywell Health. We Asked a Doctor: Tennis or Pickleball for Longevity?

SCOLA Charity Run 1.0: Run for a Cause, Run for the Future 💛

Join us at SCOLA Charity Run 1.0 on 26 July 2026 (Sunday) at Klippa Shopping Centre, Batu Kawan, for a meaningful charity event that brings the community together through fitness and fun.

This event is organised to raise funds and support for schools and students while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Participants can choose between the 5KM and 10KM categories, with the run starting at 6:00 AM.

Exciting prizes await participants, including lucky draw prizes worth up to RM50,000. The grand prize features an iPhone 17 Pro Max, along with an Electric Motorcycle, Tissot Watch, and many more attractive prizes to be won. Top 10 Male and Female winners in the 10KM category will also receive cash prizes.

📍 Date: 26 July 2026 (Sunday)
📍 Time: 6:00 AM
📍 Venue: Klippa Shopping Centre, Batu Kawan
📍 Categories: 5KM & 10KM

Limited slots available. Gather your friends and family, stay active, and support a meaningful cause together.

Register now: https://howei.com/registration/2084/token/SCOLACharityRun2026AR