KUCHING: A total of 1,849 registered participants joined the Kuching Sihat Run 2026 today (June 21).
State Health director Dr Veronica Lugah said the event attracted participation from various segments of society, with many members of the public also joining the activities despite not being officially registered.
“From the total number of participants, 618 took part in the 3-kilometre (km) category, followed by 917 in the 5km category and 314 in the 10km category.
“This encouraging participation shows that more people are becoming aware of the importance of adopting healthier habits and taking greater responsibility for their personal wellbeing,” she said.
She said this during the Kuching Sihat Run National Agenda for a Healthy Malaysia (ANMS) 2026 programme themed “Health Starts with Me” at Dataran Padang Merdeka here.
The run was flagged off by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Jointly organised by the Sarawak State Health Department and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) in conjunction with Kuching Car Free Day, the event forms part of broader efforts to expand the implementation of the National Agenda for a Healthy Malaysia (ANMS).
Dr Veronica said the agenda promotes active community participation in caring for personal, family and community health while shifting the perception that health is solely the responsibility of the healthcare sector.
She added that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and heart disease, continue to pose major public health challenges.
She also said that sedentary lifestyles and low participation in physical activity are among the contributing factors to these health concerns.
“Approximately one in every two people does not practise an active lifestyle. Therefore, without taking up more time, I hope that our programme this morning will inspire all of us to continue adopting healthy lifestyles,” she said.
Apart from participating in the run, attendees also had the opportunity to join health promotion activities, undergo health screenings and obtain healthcare information and advice from health officers on duty.
She added that community-based initiatives such as this also strengthen collaboration among government agencies, local authorities, the private sector, community organisations and the public.
“Such cooperation is essential in creating an environment that supports long-term healthy lifestyle practices,” she said.
Dr Veronica expressed hope that the programme would inspire more people to continue embracing healthier lifestyles and make health a priority in their daily lives.
Participants take part in the Kuching Sihat Run National Agenda for a Healthy Malaysia (ANMS) 2026 programme themed “Health Starts with Me”.
