Youths urged to enrich themselves with martial arts

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LET IT BEGINS: Nanyang Wushu Federation of Sarawak president, Professor Song Swee Hee (fourth left) accompanies Minister of Welfare, Women and Family Development Datuk Fatimah Abdullah (centre) in cutting the ribbon to launch the recent World Wushu Hall of Fame Conference.

KUCHING: Minister of Welfare, Women and Family Development Datuk Fatimah Abdullah called on youths to indulge and enrich themselves in martial arts.

She said wushu can provide a good avenue for them (youths) to gain knowledge of martial arts and other cultural activities which in return will develop them to become well mannered people.

Speaking at the recent International wushu achievement awards ceremony held at Crown Towers on Thursday, Fatimah also commended youths who have chosen to participate in the exciting sports which offers them a host of benefits.

“ Martial arts is not only about self-defence but also to develop other skills such as leadership and communication… it is also about moulding the character of an individual with moral values such as discipline, respect and integrity team work which are inculcated during training,” she said.

According to her, the international event can contribute to the development of Sarawak’s tourism industry by attracting foreign participants and it can promote better understanding, cooperation and world peace.

She also expressed hope for the event to inspire and encourage more youths to participate in healthy activities during their leisure time.

Meanwhile, in his welcoming speech the organising committee chairman, Professor Song Swee Hee said it was an honour for Sarawak to become host.

“It is a great privilege and honour for us,” Song said after ushering Fatimah certificates to the wushu masters.

He pointed out that wushu is a great outlet for children to prepare them for their journey to adulthood, both mentally and physically.

“Like many other sports, the art of wushu inspires young people with discipline and respect, bringing out their best,” Song said on wushu as an avenue for youth to express the best in themselves.

The event is being held to honoured inductees from all over the world for their outstanding contributions, achievements, dedication and promotion towards the growth and development of martial arts, qigong, traditional and complementary medicine, leadership, dragon and lion dances.