KUCHING: Yoga should be recognised as more than just a form of physical exercise, as it helps cultivate self-awareness, strengthen mental well-being, and foster a more peaceful society.
Batu Kitang assemblyman, Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, said in today’s fast-paced environment, many people faced stress, anxiety and pressure from modern lifestyles, making wellness practices such as yoga, mindful breathing and meditation increasingly important.
“When people hear the word yoga, we often think of stretching and physical exercise. Well, it certainly benefits our physical health.
“However, yoga is much more than that. It encourages us to slow down, be more aware of ourselves, and find balance in our daily lives,” he said when speaking at the 12th United Nations International Day of Yoga 2026 forum themed ‘View of Yoga for Wellness, Wisdom and Peace for Ourselves, Community and World Peace’ at the IAK Multipurpose Hall today.
Lo said a strong and peaceful community begins with individuals who take care of their physical, mental and emotional well-being.
“As an engineer by profession and a public servant as well, I have learned that every strong structure begins with a solid foundation. The same principle applies to society as well,” he said.
He added that the values promoted through yoga, including compassion, self-discipline, patience and respect, aligned with Sarawak’s spirit of harmony among its diverse communities.
“Peace is not created only through policies or agreements. It also grows from the attitudes and actions of ordinary people,” he said.
Echoing the importance of inner peace, Senior Spiritual Teacher and Brahma Kumaris Foundation’s (BKF) advisory council member, Rajyogini Meera Nagananda, said wellness involved more than physical health, as individuals also need to nurture their minds and inner selves.
She said the advancement of technology and access to information had resulted in people becoming increasingly disconnected from their moral and spiritual values.
“Peace cannot be found outside. Peace is a state of mind,” she said, adding that individuals who achieve inner peace could spread positivity and contribute towards a more peaceful society.
She also highlighted the importance of balance in life, saying wisdom came from balancing the head and the heart.
Meanwhile, Datuk Chris Chung shared how meditation, which he had practised for years, helped him become calmer and more stable when facing challenges in daily life.
He said wellness should be approached holistically by focusing on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
“Change must come from ourselves. Once you change yourself, your positive energy will influence the people around you,” he said.
