KUCHING: Shopping centres in Sarawak should become active partners in promoting healthy living as part of the national wellness agenda, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the state-level Wellness Month and World Physical Activity Day 2025 celebration here on Sunday.
In his speech delivered by Kuching South City Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, he said that the concept of transforming malls into “health-promoting malls” could encourage safe, accessible and inclusive community participation in physical activities such as mall walking, which is suitable for all ages.
Leveraging existing public spaces, he added, will help embed healthy practices into daily life and improve community health literacy.
Dr Sim called on mall operators to intensify their support through promotions on digital channels and community platforms including mall apps, LED displays and partnerships with retailers to expand public participation in wellness activities and messaging.
“We not only need smart people. We need happy people. Most importantly, we need healthy people,” he said, noting that good health forms the foundation of national progress and prosperity.
He said this year’s celebration, themed “Dekatkan Hidup Sihat, Kukuhkan Imuniti Badan” (Cultivate a Healthy Lifestyle, Strengthen Body Immunity), focuses on encouraging Malaysians to consistently practise healthier behaviours.
The campaign highlights five priority areas: increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, strengthening mental well-being, reducing smoking and vaping, and maintaining environmental and personal cleanliness, all of which are crucial in preventing diseases and supporting healthy ageing.
The event, organised at MYDIN Vista Tunku and led by the Sarawak State Health Department under its health director Dr Veronica Lugah, reflects a whole-of-nation approach to advancing the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS).
Dr Sim also commended the healthcare team and volunteers for contributing their weekend to strengthen health awareness among Sarawakians, saying their efforts demonstrate strong community commitment toward a healthier population.
The two-day programme reaffirms Sarawak’s determination to nurture a resilient society and elevate public health standards nationwide.
