DBKU’s Jom Sihat sees rising health awareness, participation

KUCHING (Dec 22): Health forms the foundation of productivity, well-being, and community prosperity – a principle that continues to guide the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) in its urban development approach.

The Jom Sihat DBKU 2025 programme has once again demonstrated that sustained lifestyle initiatives, rather than one-off campaigns, deliver tangible health outcomes.

These include improved fitness and greater health awareness among participants.

Now in its 14th consecutive year since its introduction in 2012, the programme has evolved beyond physical exercise, positioning health as a central pillar in building a resilient, dynamic, and liveable city.

At the closing ceremony on Sunday, DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah emphasised that the programme reflects the council’s long-term commitment to advancing physical, mental, and social well-being across the community.

“This is not merely an event, but a continuous movement to instil a healthy lifestyle culture and improve the overall quality of life for residents of northern Kuching,” he said.

He added that the initiative also serves as a strategic platform for collaboration between government agencies and private sector partners.

Ramzi extended his appreciation to the partners for their roles in the programme’s success.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the strong support of our collaborative partners, including the Kuching Division Health Office, Hospital Sentosa, Department of Youth and Sports, the National Anti-Drugs Agency, and private medical partners such as Optimal Eye Specialist, Apex Medicare Clinic, Normah Medical Specialist Centre, Kuching Specialist Hospital (KPJ), Dr Ko Clinic, and Hasani Clinic.

“The outcomes of this programme have shown very positive and comprehensive impacts, including improved health literacy among city residents through access to quality health information and services,” he noted.

A highlight of this year’s edition was ‘The Biggest Loser DBKU 2025’, which ran from September 11 to November 9.

The nearly two-month challenge involved 100 participants, including DBKU staff and members of the public.

Participants engaged in structured activities such as jogging, brisk walking, balanced diet practices, and even a hike at Mount Serapi to test physical endurance and mental resilience.

Winners received cash prizes, with the champion awarded RM1,500, followed by RM1,000 for second place, RM800 for third, RM400 for fourth, and RM200 for fifth place.

Beyond fitness challenges, Jom Sihat DBKU 2025 featured aerobic sessions, health screenings, informative exhibitions, creative competitions using recycled materials, colouring and poster contests, and lucky draws — ensuring the programme remained inclusive and family-friendly.

Also present at the closing ceremony were DBKU deputy director (Community Services) Rudzaimeir Malek and Acting Environmental Health Division Head Khairulnizam Abdul Rani.