[13.08.2007] Call to promote healthy lifestyle

Debbie Too

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


13-Aug-07

HEALTHY lifestyle and tourism in Brunei Darussalam are set to get a big boost with the dual opening of the new Fitness Zone branch and the Palm Garden Hotel in Kiulap yesterday.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Mohammad Hj Daud, who was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony, said that the establishments promote a better lifestyle among people in Brunei, and add to the country's existing tourism infrastructure.

In his speech, he said, "Health establishment such as this one is essential in promoting a healthy lifestyle that will be beneficial as one grows older."

The minister also spoke of the economic aspect of such establishment, saying that there were growing numbers of entrepreneurs who had ventured into the health industry opening up gyms and health studios such as Fitness Zone.

"Other than its economic aspect, business of health services and products also promote a healthy lifestyle, which is valuable to the country to have citizens who are strong physically and mentally, for the development of the country," said the minister.

Pehin Dato Hj Mohammad also said that the development and opening of The Palm Garden Hotel perfectly coincided with the Visit Brunei 2008 campaign.

"With its strategic and convenient location, this will be a tourist spot, which will attract more foreign tourists to help boost the economy and open up more job opportunities for the locals," he added.

The grand opening of both establishments received tremendous response, as the surrounding parking lots were full since early morning. Guests and fans gathered in the scorching hot weather to catch a glimpse of Bruneian-born celebrity Wu Zhun as he officially opened both establishments. Wu Zhun then addressed the minister in Bahasa Melayu, speaking about the Fitness Zone as well as healthy living. After that, he addressed his fans who flew in from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, in Mandarin. "I know you all do not understand what I was saying just now, but I am very grateful for your support and I fully appreciate all of you for flying in from your countries to my hometown in Brunei."

Also present at the opening ceremony was Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Awg Goh King Chin and Pehin Bendahari Cina Dato Paduka Onn Siew Siong.

After a spectacular lion dance performance by the Chung Hwa Lion Dance Association and a tour of both establishments, everyone was treated to food and refreshments.

The Brunei Times