UNICEF Ambassador to Malaysia to join 11,000 runners
KOTA KINABALU: Lisa Surihani, UNICEF National Ambassador to Malaysia, will run alongside close to 11,000 runners at the UNICEF Borneo Marathon to promote better nutrition with the theme #KurangManis because #I'mSweetEnough.
The marathon today aims to promote healthy eating habits among children and adolescents by encouraging participants to “kurang manis” which mean to reduce sugar intake.
Lisa, alongside children with and without disabilities, will be running a 3-km route together with their friends and families to promote #KurangManis for better health.
Meanwhile, UNICEF Representative in Malaysia Marianne Clark-Hattingh called on the public to keep an eye on children's health with regards to sugar intake.
“Let's get our children off to a healthier start by saying ‘Kurang Manis' today for a sweeter tomorrow. Obesity and being overweight have a real effect on a child's health.
“It affects their performance in school academically, socially and their overall self-esteem. This in turn has repercussions on the development of the nation,” she told a press conference here, yesterday.
According to the World Health Organisation, obesity among children aged between 5-19 years old in Malaysia is the second highest in the ASEAN region after Brunei. Consumption of sugary drinks is a major contributor.
“We need to consider the health of our children today and its impact on the country in the next 30 years. We all have a role to play in helping children eat healthier, grow up stronger and reach their full potential. For every life, a healthy life," Clark-Hattingh said.
Also present was Kinabalu Running Club President Datuk Dr Heng Aik Cheng, among others.