AIA Malaysia has launched the AIA Healthiest Schools programme designed to encourage healthy living habits among students.
Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia, the programme aims to promote healthy eating, active lifestyles, mental wellbeing, as well as health and sustainability among students aged five to 16 in schools.
AIA Malaysia chief executive officer Ben Ng said the organisation is taking a proactive step towards promoting health literacy and wellbeing among Malaysian children through the programme.
“A National Health and Morbidity Survey in 2022 showed that one-third of Malaysian teenagers aged 13-17 are overweight or obese, which can lead to a range of chronic illnesses that are usually only associated with older adults.
“Additionally, there is increasing recognition that younger children are experiencing mental health difficulties, with 1 in 20 Malaysian children aged five to nine estimated to have mental disorders, which include developmental disorders, such as anxiety and depression,” said Ng.
As an organisation that advocates for “healthier, longer, better lives”, AIA wants to do their part to address the increasing rate of childhood health issues by inculcating a healthier lifestyle.
“Health is our greatest asset and it is important that our future generations have a chance at living a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
“The AIA Healthiest Schools programme will be a natural extension of our advocacy and social responsibility, aimed at helping children be the best versions of themselves. We look forward to active participation from teachers and schools across Malaysia,” added Ng.
AIA Malaysia is collaborating with education consultant LeapEd to implement the AIA Healthiest Schools programme in Malaysia. The programme provides free downloadable resources, in English, Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin, consisting of introduction films, flexible activities, lesson plans, and fun games.
Interactive workshops for teachers are also set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Ipoh to assist them in integrating the programme and adapting lessons into their existing teaching materials.
The programme includes a competition to motivate participating schools to showcase their impact and success in driving better health outcomes amongst students. Prizes totalling USD 100,000 will be awarded to the schools that demonstrate the best health and wellness efforts.
The AIA Healthiest Schools programme, launched by AIA Group in 2022 as part of its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy, is open to all government, private and international schools, both primary and secondary levels, with the aim to make a positive impact on children health across the region.
