MEDAN Angsana in Paya Terubong came alive this morning with upbeat music and energetic Zumba performances that drew an enthusiastic crowd during a Health Carnival organised by the service centre of assemblyman Wong Hon Wai.
The event featured a range of free services and activities for residents, including haircuts for senior citizens, cataract screening, wound treatment and care, will consultation, health check-ups, nutritional analysis and body mass index (BMI) assessment, bioelectric and meridian health treatments, as well as spinal examinations.
Adding to the buzz was the Jualan Rahmah Madani initiative, which attracted many residents with its offer of essential goods at affordable prices. The carnival also received support from Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh.
Wong, who also serves as the state executive councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, said the Health Carnival was aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among the community.
“Health is the most important aspect of our lives. However, the overall health of Penangites is not very encouraging — our cholesterol levels, obesity rates, and cases of high blood pressure are above the national average. We must take better care of ourselves,” Wong told attendees at the basketball court in Medan Angsana.
He shared that his office had recently organised the first-ever 3-on-3 basketball tournament at the same venue, drawing 36 participating teams.
“I encourage everyone to take up at least one sport and exercise regularly. It will do your body a lot of good,” said Wong, who himself has completed three half-marathons this year, in addition to numerous full marathons in the past.
Wong also noted that part of the George Town Festival was held in Paya Terubong for the first time this year. In addition, drainage improvement works are currently being implemented from the Farlim market to Sungai Dondang to help mitigate the flooding issue that has often affected the low-lying areas along Lebuhraya Thean Teik.
He thanked all sponsors and supporters for their contributions in making the Health Carnival a success.
Also present were organising chairlady Goh Boon Ping, G. Visvanaath, who represented Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh; Tan Kean Tatt, chairman of MPKK Medan Angsana; Ong Theam Hock, chairman of MPKK Semarak Api; and Albert Khoo, secretary of Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) Taman Terubong Indah.
Story and pix by K.H. Ong