New health initiatives encourage fitness and wellness in the Malay/Muslim community through local collaborations
In an effort to improve health and well-being within the Malay/Muslim community, several new community-led health programmes have been introduced. One such initiative, the Saham Kesihatan (Invest In Your Health) programme, was launched in June 2023 to help individuals manage conditions like high blood pressure and promote healthier living.
Ms. Norma Yaacob, 57, a civil servant, participated in the programme and now incorporates regular exercises such as Zumba and brisk walks into her routine. Her commitment has helped her control her blood pressure, and she has continued to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including reducing sugar intake and eating more vegetables.
The programme, part of a wider effort by M³ (a partnership involving Mendaki, Muis, and the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council), has attracted over 800 participants. It focuses on bringing health initiatives to 11 towns, covering 80% of the Malay/Muslim community, and includes fitness classes, health talks, and social engagement activities.
In addition to Saham Kesihatan, M³ has also launched other initiatives like Jaga Kesihatan, Jaga Ummah (JKJU), which has seen close to 5,000 residents participate in health talks and exercise sessions. One notable collaboration with the Health Promotion Board (HPB) included distributing healthier grocery packs to over 10,000 families during Ramadan and Hari Raya in 2024.
To ensure the physical preparedness of pilgrims for the Haj, a special programme was introduced in 2024. Over 80% of pilgrims participated in the Get Fit For Haj programme, which included health talks and exercise sessions.
M³’s initiatives also extend to encouraging participation in national health campaigns like Healthier SG, and corporate volunteers are now involved in community health projects through the Organisational Volunteers programme. This broadening of participation is aimed at building a more health-conscious and informed community.
Further initiatives include educational efforts led by young Malay lawyers, teaching the community about legal matters like wills and lasting power of attorney (LPA), reinforcing the importance of well-being in all aspects of life.
