SIBU: More than 2,400 participants took part in Rakyat Sihat, Sarawak Makmur event in conjunction with the Celebration of Sarawak’s 60th Independence Anniversary at Dataran Tuanku Haji Bujang here this morning.
The launching ceremony and flag-off were officiated by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang Ming Tee, who represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Sport is an important component in promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. Sports and other physical activities need to be made more accessible, making it easier for people to achieve a healthy life.
“Promoting mass participation in sports at all levels of society like today’s ‘Rakyat Sihat, Sarawak Makmur Run’, will instil a sports culture, enhance social integration and unity among Malaysians,” he said in his text of speech read by Tiang.
Abang Johari said that the fun run event was organised in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Sarawak being a founding partner in the formation of Malaysia.
He emphasised that sports are an important component in promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
Abang Johari also stressed the theme of this celebration which is ‘Progressive and Prosperous Sarawak’.
“The anniversary celebration aims to instil a sense of pride in Sarawakians while at the same time strengthening unity, mutual respect and tolerance among Sarawakians despite differences in race, religion and culture,” he said.
Meanwhile, organising chairman Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau said that under the leadership of Abang Johari, Sarawak will progress towards becoming a prosperous state and achieve high-income status by 2030, in line with the theme of “Progressive and Prosperous Sarawak.”
“In addition to commemorating Sarawak’s 60th anniversary as a founding partner of the formation of Malaysia, today’s run also aims to acknowledge the importance of exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is an unwanted reminder of how crucial health is for individuals, society, and the economy,” he said.
Also present at the event were Deputy State Secretary Datuk Hii Chang Kee, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Senator Robert Lau, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting, and the Sibu Resident Wong Hee Sieng.
