For too long, the Youth and Sports Ministry has focused on competitive sports, achieving success in arenas like badminton. While this focus has brought us glory, it’s time to expand our vision to include non-competitive sports that everyone can enjoy.
This shift will encourage every Malaysian to embrace physical activity for health, happiness, and community.
Non-competitive sports like walking, jogging, cycling, and hiking allow Malaysians of all ages to stay active. These activities provide a healthy way to de-stress, and can positively impact one’s life. It is time for the Youth and Sports Ministry, in collaboration with other ministries and the Malaysian Recreation and Leisure Council, to emphasise non-competitive sports. This aligns with the 1988 National Sports Policy and the ‘Malaysia Cergas’ slogan, which highlighted the need for both high-performance sports and ‘Sports for All’.
The main objective is to raise awareness among Malaysians of the importance of making sports and exercise a part of their daily life. The government should prepare a comprehensive blueprint to promote and encourage non-competitive sports for Malaysians of all ages. While competitive sports cater to a select group of talented individuals, the ‘Sports for All’ concept appeals to the masses, improving the health and wellbeing of everyone. Inclusivity is key, with participants from all ages, religions, and genders contributing to the programme’s success.
The recent announcement by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, providing a RM1,000 tax relief for Malaysians to purchase equipment for 103 types of sports, is a positive start. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment in promoting physical activity.
Here are suggestions on the roles that can be played by key stakeholders:
Government and local authorities
The federal government must lead with a solid policy framework, backed by programmes and financial resources. Both federal and state agencies need to work together to create and maintain facilities that encourage physical activities, such as parks, walking trails, and sports fields. Local authorities should ensure these facilities are accessible and well-maintained.
Politicians and leaders
Our leaders must walk the talk. Their participation in leisure and recreational activities will inspire citizens to follow suit. It’s not just about attending one event, but consistently engaging in these activities.
Education Ministry
The Education Ministry should collaborate with school principals to integrate sports and activities into the daily routine of students. Organising sporting events daily during and after school can inspire students to be active and encourage their families to join in. This grassroots approach can create a ripple effect, promoting a culture of fitness from a young age.
Health Ministry
The Health Ministry should promote an active lifestyle for all ages. Encouraging regular exercise can significantly reduce health issues, including dementia among seniors. A healthier population will ease the burden on our healthcare system, which is currently overstretched. Long-term benefits include reduced medical costs and improved quality of life.
Community and residents associations
Residents associations play a crucial role at the community level. They can organise leisure and recreational activities that bring neighbourhoods together, fostering a strong community spirit. Such activities not only enhance physical health but also build social connections, contributing to overall wellbeing.
Supporting non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including organisations for seniors like SeniorsAloud, should be supported and funded to promote an active lifestyle among the elderly. These groups can organise activities that keep seniors engaged and healthy, reducing loneliness, and improving mental health.
Clubs
Clubs should be encouraged to organise leisure and recreational activities for their members. Sports like chess, table tennis, tennis, and badminton can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels, promoting a culture of inclusion and activity.
Individuals
At the grassroots level, individuals can take the initiative to organise recreational activities. This can be as simple as arranging a community walk or a local sports event. Personal initiatives can drive participation and inspire others.
To kick-start this initiative, high-visibility events with very, very important people, including the prime minister and chief ministers, participating in leisure and recreational activities, should be organised. These events should be widely publicised to raise awareness and demonstrate the government’s commitment to this policy.
The concept of ‘Sports for All’ should be communicated clearly as a win-win: a healthier population means reduced healthcare costs, and a happier, more connected society. The commitment and support of the government, combined with active participation from all stakeholders, are crucial to the success of the ‘Sports for All’ policy. By embracing this vision, Malaysia can pave the way for a future where health and community wellbeing are prioritised, leading to a more vibrant and healthy nation.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer’s and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.
