News
November 11, 2025
Sports can build healthier, smarter and greener youth
From DR SEAN THUM and DR SHEENA RAMAZANU Johor Baru Read full story
**Sports Can Build Healthier, Smarter and Greener Youth**
JOHOR BAHRU – Participating in sports offers benefits far beyond just physical fitness. According to Dr. Sean Thum and Dr. Sheena Ramazanu, writing from Johor Bahru, engaging in sports can contribute significantly to the holistic development of young people, fostering not only healthier bodies but also sharper minds and a greater appreciation for environmental responsibility.
The authors emphasize that regular physical activity through sports is crucial in combating the rising rates of childhood obesity and related health issues. Sports provide a structured and enjoyable way for children to develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Beyond weight management, engaging in sports strengthens bones and muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
But the benefits extend far beyond the physical realm. Dr. Thum and Dr. Ramazanu argue that sports participation cultivates essential cognitive skills. Team sports, in particular, encourage strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making under pressure. Learning to follow rules, coordinate with teammates, and adapt to changing game situations enhances cognitive flexibility and improves overall academic performance.
Furthermore, the authors highlight the often-overlooked connection between sports and environmental awareness. Outdoor sports, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming, provide opportunities for young people to connect with nature and develop a deeper understanding of the importance of environmental conservation. Even team sports played on fields can be used as a platform to promote sustainable practices, such as waste reduction, recycling, and water conservation.
By instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment, sports can empower young people to become active advocates for a greener future. Dr. Thum and Dr. Ramazanu suggest that schools and communities should prioritize access to diverse sporting activities and integrate environmental education into sports programs. This multifaceted approach can help cultivate a generation of healthier, smarter, and environmentally conscious individuals, poised to contribute positively to society.
JOHOR BAHRU – Participating in sports offers benefits far beyond just physical fitness. According to Dr. Sean Thum and Dr. Sheena Ramazanu, writing from Johor Bahru, engaging in sports can contribute significantly to the holistic development of young people, fostering not only healthier bodies but also sharper minds and a greater appreciation for environmental responsibility.
The authors emphasize that regular physical activity through sports is crucial in combating the rising rates of childhood obesity and related health issues. Sports provide a structured and enjoyable way for children to develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Beyond weight management, engaging in sports strengthens bones and muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
But the benefits extend far beyond the physical realm. Dr. Thum and Dr. Ramazanu argue that sports participation cultivates essential cognitive skills. Team sports, in particular, encourage strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making under pressure. Learning to follow rules, coordinate with teammates, and adapt to changing game situations enhances cognitive flexibility and improves overall academic performance.
Furthermore, the authors highlight the often-overlooked connection between sports and environmental awareness. Outdoor sports, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming, provide opportunities for young people to connect with nature and develop a deeper understanding of the importance of environmental conservation. Even team sports played on fields can be used as a platform to promote sustainable practices, such as waste reduction, recycling, and water conservation.
By instilling a sense of responsibility towards the environment, sports can empower young people to become active advocates for a greener future. Dr. Thum and Dr. Ramazanu suggest that schools and communities should prioritize access to diverse sporting activities and integrate environmental education into sports programs. This multifaceted approach can help cultivate a generation of healthier, smarter, and environmentally conscious individuals, poised to contribute positively to society.
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Politics