KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng commended the strong collaboration between SJK Chung Hua No. 3 and MBKS at the Merentas Desa 8.0 cross-country programme held this morning.
Now in its eighth year, the annual event reflects the shared commitment of both organisations in supporting holistic student development through physical activity and community engagement.
The event was also attended by Sarawak United Association of Chinese Primary School Boards of Management president Datuk Jonathan Chai Voon Tok, Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) chairman Albert Tay, SJK Chung Hua No. 3 headmaster Bong Nyuk Siong and several MBKS Councillors.
“I would like to commend SJK Chung Hua No. 3 for its continuous commitment and strong collaboration with MBKS in organising this meaningful programme over the past eight years.
“This initiative not only promotes physical fitness but also instils discipline, resilience and teamwork among students,” he said.
Wee also highlighted the growing concern of sedentary lifestyles among children today.
“Programmes like Merentas Desa play a key role in encouraging children to stay active.
“Regular physical activity is essential to reduce the risk of obesity and to support both physical and mental well-being,” he added.
Wee further reiterated MBKS’s commitment under the Child Friendly Cities Initiative, noting that MBKS is the first council in Borneo to be recognised by UNICEF as a CFCI Candidate City.
The initiative focuses on creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for children through awareness, education and community-based programmes.
Merentas Desa 8.0 stands as a strong example of effective collaboration between schools and local authorities, in line with the shared vision of building a healthier, more active and child-friendly community in Kuching South.
