KUCHING: The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) is encouraging the public to adopt a more active and healthier lifestyle, despite their busy schedules.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said for instance, sports participation offers significant indirect benefits, particularly for those with demanding workloads.
“As we age, we tend to exercise less and indulge more often in food, with dishes like ‘mee jawa’ and curry noodles becoming regular treats enjoyed with little restraint,” he said.
He said this during the closing ceremony of the 2025 MYSED Sports Carnival held at the Sarawak Sports Village here today.
Abdul Karim added that active involvement in tournaments and training sessions, individuals are more likely to maintain physical wellness and build healthier routines.
On the carnival, Abdul Karim described it as a meaningful initiative that promotes fitness and unity within the civil service.
“This kind of event should not be a one off. Given the positive impact it has had, I hope it would become an annual tradition,” he said.
He suggested that future editions of the carnival be held in other locations such as Sibu, Miri or Bintulu to allow civil servants from different regions the opportunity to participate and host the event in turn.
Abdul Karim, who is also the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister, proposed that event grants under MTCP be considered as a funding source for future editions of the carnival.
“Events like this deepen civil servants’ appreciation for the sacrifices and discipline shown by athletes in Sarawak.
“When we engage in sports ourselves, we begin to understand just how demanding an athlete’s life can be,” he said.
Earlier, the inaugural MYSED Sports Carnival drew a total of 370 participants from across various government departments and agencies.
Aimed at fostering camaraderie and encouraging a healthy lifestyle among civil servants, the carnival featured a variety of sporting events including tug of war, pintong, pickleball, darts and football.
Demonstrating remarkable teamwork and sportsmanship, Hornbill Xtrooper 13 was crowned overall champion of the event.
KMSS Midforce and Northern Crocs secured second and third places respectively, earning praise for their spirited performances across multiple categories.
