http://www.thestar.com.my
Monday September 13, 2004
KUALA LUMPUR: Youths have been urged to give up smoking and take up at least two types of sport activities to stay healthy.
“If possible, those who smoke should try to stop. It is bad for your health. Furthermore, cigarette prices have gone up. It’s better for you to take care of your health,” Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said at the launch of the National Fitness Council at Bukit Jalil National Stadium here yesterday.
The Prime Minister told youths to take up at least two sport activities that they liked.
“When I was young I loved cycling, mountain climbing in particular Bukit Bendera, playing badminton, tennis and football to stay healthy. And I didn’t smoke.
“You must remember that being unhealthy could be an obstacle for anyone to be successful in his or her endeavours,” he said, adding that a balanced diet and a hygienic environment were also vital for health.
He also urged Malaysians, particularly youths, to take advantage of fitness programmes carried out by the council, which was a joint-effort between the Youth and Sports Ministry, the Housing and Local Government Ministry, the Health Ministry and the National Unity and Integration Department.
“The success of the programmes depends on support from the public. Hopefully, they will be implemented with full commitment,” Abdullah said, adding that other ministries should also help make the programmes a success.
National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. Exercising with him are, from left, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Azalina Othman Said, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
On Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Azalina Othman’s proposal to set up a Cabinet committee on sports to make Malaysian sportsmen world-beaters, he said: “She can submit the proposal during the Cabinet meeting. I will give my support.”