Fit Malaysia receives strong support in Sandakan
SANDAKAN: Over 17,000 persons took part in the state-level Fit Malaysia programme, organized by the Youth and Sports Ministry here yesterday.
Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar said he was surprised with the turnout in Sandakan and was very happy that the people of Sandakan were health conscious and active.
“This is a huge success for Sandakan and I would like to congratulate all those who are involved with the programme. This shows that healthy lifestyle is starting to become a reality among the rakyat,” he said.
The Fit Malaysia programme is held in each state for every round. It is going to be held in Pahang on March 26 and Terengganu on April 8 this year which will mark the end of second round of the programme.
Khairy said for the third round, Fit Malaysia programme may be held in Tawau.
He said the programme is important for Malaysia to become a country that practises healthy lifestyle, with the aim that by the year 2020, half of Malaysians exercise at least three times a week, with one session lasting a minimum of 30 minutes.
“We are getting closer to this aim and we also hope that by the year 2050, more than 80% of Malaysians are active and practise healthy lifestyle,” he added.
Events held during the programme included cycling, 5km run, 10km run and exhibition booths which were set up at Padang Bandaran Sandakan.
Among those who were present during the event were Sabah Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar Titingan, representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman, Beluran member of parliament Datuk Ronald Kiandee, Assistant Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Masiung Banah, Sekong assemblyman Datuk Samsudin Yahya and Sandakan Municipal Council president, Datuk Ir James Wong.