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The Health Ministry’s 90-day Healthy Steps Challenge aims to boost physical activity among civil servants using digital platforms
KANGAR: The Ministry of Health has launched a 90-day “Healthy Steps Challenge” to promote active living among civil servants nationwide.
The digital competition between state health departments will run from April 27 to July 27 under the Healthy and Prosperous Civil Servants Initiative (i-PASS).
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the challenge aims to strengthen teamwork and foster a culture of healthy living through digital engagement.
His speech was read by Health Deputy Director-General (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohar at the launch of the national World Physical Activity Day and Northern Zone Fitness Carnival 2026.
The event was officiated by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail.
Dzulkefly cited concerning data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023 to underscore the initiative’s urgency.
The survey found that 29.9% of Malaysians are physically inactive, a rise from 25.1% in 2019.
It also revealed 84% of adults are inactive in sports and fitness, while one in two adults are sedentary for over two hours daily.
“This is a worrying trend and a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease,” he said.
The minister stressed the need for a strategic and integrated approach to drive behavioural change towards a healthier lifestyle.
He also advised the public to take precautions during physical activity in the current hot weather.
Recommendations include staying well-hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities between 11 am and 4 pm.
The public should seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue.