Health Ministry backs sports science to boost preventive healthcare and healthy ageing

KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry has pledged its full support for advancing sports science and medicine as part of a broader push towards preventive healthcare.Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the ministry's overall aim was to prevent illnesses rather than treat them."If I were to focus solely on enhancing sick care, there would be no end," he said.

He added that improving sports science and medicine would also strengthen preventive care for the elderly, as Malaysia transitions into an ageing nation with increased life expectancy.Dzulkefly said that women in Malaysia are expected to live to an average age of 74 or 75, while men are expected to reach around 73.5 years.



"We are empowering the elderly to remain active, independent, and maintain their overall health."These initiatives are critical as we move towards a system that is inclusive, competitive, and age-friendly," he said, urging private healthcare facilities to collaborate with the government in adapting to an ageing population.The government has rolled out various initiatives for the ageing population to stay healthy through the 'Healthy Ageing Nation Agenda' under the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030.

The initiative aims to improve the lives of older people, their families, and communities globally.As part of this, the ministry has introduced the Elderly Persons Club initiative to enhance the quality of life for older adults by delaying age-related decline and promoting healthy ageing.Dzulkefly was speaking at the Malaysian Sports Medicine Symposium held at Universiti Malaya today.

He added that sports medicine was not only vital for enhancing athletic performance but also for promoting the overall wellbeing of athletes.On a separate matter, he said the government is still engaging with stakeholders following the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry's directive for private healthcare facilities to display the prices of medicines, which will come into effect on May 1.Additionally, Dzulkefly said the Good Samaritan law is not considered an urgent bill, but he reiterated his commitment to ensuring legal protection for individuals who assist others in emergencies.

Two weeks ago, the Health Ministry received 210 units of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) from supermarket chain 99 Speedmart.He said the devices will be placed in clinics and hospitals to help first responders act more swiftly in emergencies.© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd.