Yeoh (in white T-shirt) flagging off the walkathon as part of the active lifestyle programme at Taman Tasik Menjalara. — Photos: YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
IN an effort to encourage residents to be more physically active, a “Jom Gerak” programme was held at Taman Tasik Menjalara in Kuala Lumpur.
The event, the second of its kind, included a 3.29km walkathon and health services, such as lung and general health screening, bone density scan, blood donation, nutritional advice and free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.
The event received an enthusiastic response from the community, with a turnout of about 600 participants.
Walkathon finishers were rewarded with a medal and goodie bag each valued at RM25.
Jom Gerak offered health services to the public including lung capacity testing.
Organised by Feminine magazine, the event was held in collaboration with the Segambut Parliamentary Resident Representative Council and the office of Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh.
The event featured a vibrant 24 festive-drum performance by the Hands Percussion Academy, as well as a petting zoo, food stalls and game booths to foster community building.
Flagged off by Yeoh alongside national basketball players Chia Mun Yi and Bobo Yap, “Jom Gerak” aims to promote health awareness, particularly among senior citizens, encouraging them to exercise.
Yeoh, who is also Youth and Sports Minister, said she envisioned Malaysia as a sporting nation and drove the importance of citizens taking up sports for a healthier lifestyle.
Participants queueing for a free health screening.
“This year, we are focusing on sports for senior citizens, to promote active lifestyles even as they age,” Yeoh said.
She encouraged people to buy fitness watches for their elderly relatives.
Yeoh also took the opportunity to expound on the tax incentive for sports starting in 2025.
“There will be a tax deduction of up to RM1,000 in the sports category, including purchase of sports equipment, gym membership, sports tournaments and sports training for families.
“The incentive is applicable for 103 types of sports listed in the First Schedule of the Sports Development Act 1997.”
Jom Gerak offered health services to the public including blood donation drive.
She said many people including youngsters and the elderly had become sedentary ever since the Covid-19 pandemic, and the tax incentive was hopes to help turn things around.
Yeoh also expressed hope for more events similar to “Jom Gerak” to be conducted in other areas in Malaysia.
She suggested MPs collaborate with corporations and private sectors to bring health-related activities to the people, so that all could be part of a more active community.
