Time to dust off those old trainers and warm up – Putrajaya has announced that Malaysia will have a National Sports Day every October, beginning this year.
Prime Minister Najib Razak said the initiative would aim to turn Malaysia into a more athletic and healthier nation, and the Federal Government has set aside the second Saturday of every October as a celebration of our sporting tradition.
“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 at the launch of National Sports Day 2015 in KL.
Najib was also hopeful that National Sports Day would spur the growth of competitive sports among Malaysians.
“Our population is almost the same as Australia’s, but it’s obvious we are way behind them in sports.
“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,” he told The Star Online.
The PM also advised Malaysians to be healthier to stave off chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart problems.
“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.”
We can’t stop imagning a national-scale school sports day. Thousands of sports houses, and cheap canteen food!
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