KUALA LUMPUR: In a bid to turn Malaysia into a sporting and healthier nation, the Government has declared the second Saturday of October every year as National Sports Day.
The inaugural National Sports Day, which aims to attract about three million Malaysians, will be observed on Oct 10.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak launched the 2015 National Sports Day here yesterday and lauded the Ministry of Youth and Sports for its initiative.
“We have all kind of celebrations – Teacher’s Day, Police Day and Nursing Day – but this National Sports Day is one of a kind.
“That’s because it involves mass participation, not by thousands but millions of Malaysians. We have seen how sports has played an important role in helping in nation building,” he said.
Najib was convinced the celebrations would also serve a major boost for competitive sports.
“Our population is almost the same as Australia’s, but it’s obvious we are way behind them in sports,” stressed Najib.
“But it doesn’t mean we are not capable. We have produced champions like (former) world badminton No.1 Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Asia’s fastest man Datuk M. Jegathesan, the glorious Malaysian team of the 60s, world squash champion Nicol David and many others.”
Najib also called on Malaysians to practise a healthy lifestyle.
“Chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and heart attack can be avoided if we all pick up a healthy lifestyle,” added Najib.
“This is what the National Sports Day is trying to put emphasis on. Do get involved.
“God willing, I will take part, too.
“And if I can participate, there is no reason why you cannot.”
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
