HCM CITY — A mass Vovinam martial arts–music performance involving 60,000 students from 165 schools across HCM City has set both Vietnamese and world records for the largest onsite–online synchronised Vovinam display.

The central performance featured 5,000 students from 15 schools gathering at Sài Gòn Riverside Park, while another 55,000 students from 150 schools joined simultaneously from their campuses. From early morning, thousands of students rehearsed in unison, creating an energetic build-up to the record-setting moment.

Nguyễn Văn Hiếu, Director of the HCM City Department of Education and Training, said the event marked 50 years of achievements by the city’s education sector and highlighted the growing role of sports in school-based learning.

“We wanted students to become a meaningful part of the dual Việt Nam and world records," he said.

"Training together has strengthened their bond, nurtured a habit of regular physical exercise and instilled national pride.”

Hiếu added that the Department appreciated the longstanding support of Nestlé MILO for school sports.

Recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Vovinam was selected for its alignment with Vietnamese physique and its emphasis on discipline, resilience and national identity. Through martial arts practice, students learn teamwork, self-confidence and courage - values considered essential for building a dynamic young generation.

The programme included 'The Essence of Vietnamese Martial Arts' performed by professional athletes, followed by a mass demonstration showcasing synchronised movements from more than 60,000 students.

Aerial views captured striking formations, including the flag of the National Liberation Front of South Việt Nam set to Nhà Tôi Có Một Lá Cờ (My Home Has a Flag), and the Vietnamese national flag accompanied by Giai Điệu Tự Hào (Melody of Pride).

During the ceremony, the HCM City People’s Committee presented commemorative medals to the Department of Education and Training, the Việt Nam Vovinam Federation and Nestlé Vietnam for their contributions.

Binu Jacob, General Director of Nestlé Vietnam, said the company had viewed school sports as a foundation for children’s development throughout its 30 years in the country.

“We hope today’s record-setting performance and our continued support through school Vovinam tournaments will help spread a love of sport among students - the next generation who will shape Việt Nam’s future,” he said.

Following the synchronised performance, 2,000 students participated in the EduRun race, adding a lively finish to the day’s activities.

Nestlé MILO continues to work with the Ministry of Education and Training through the 'Năng Động Việt Nam' (A dynamic Việt Nam) initiative launched in 2016, expanding playgrounds such as the Energy Camp, Walking Day and Champ Move, and supporting major events including the SEA Games, the National U11 Football Tournament, Phù Đổng Sports Festival and the National School Sports Festival.

The programme reaches millions of children each year and aims to promote an active, healthy generation across the country. — VNS