Azlan Othman

Members of the public lauded the government’s call to promote physical activities such as those that can be carried out either indoors, around the yard or in recreational parks and not in groups, as well as to always practice physical distancing.

Of late, joggers are seen at parks, stadiums and recreation centres but they must adhere to safe-distancing rules when exercising, said a sportsman who frequents the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar on Thursday reminded the public to conduct physical activities to prevent non-communicable diseases as the COVID-19-enforced break prevents people from conducting group exercises.

Golfers in the country also called on the authorities concerned to relax the rules and to allow them to play.

“They should not be in groups or competitions and only allow two or four players at a time. And once they have completed, they should go back home straightway. Less than five per cent of the population engages in golfing in the country. A 18-hole golf course is about 72 acres in area with one hole in every four acres. Hence it is a safe game to play.

“Temperature checks must be available. Not everyone can afford to play golf and one has to pay membership and green fees,” they said.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham on Thursday said, “With current concerns facing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak, the public is reminded not to forget physical activity and adults should exercise for at least 30 minutes a day and children 60 minutes a day. This is to maintain health and prevent non-communicable diseases.”