Health must be a long-term commitment, not crisis-driven

SHAH ALAM – Health should be viewed as a long-term, holistic commitment rather than something prioritised only when illness strikes, said Avisena Healthcare Group chief executive officer Elina Nadia Omar.

She said modern healthcare must extend beyond treatment to include physical fitness, cardiovascular health, stress management and balanced daily lifestyles, particularly among younger generations.

“Many people only begin paying attention to their health when they experience symptoms or illness.

“True wellbeing encompasses heart health, physical fitness, stress management and balanced daily lifestyles, yet these aspects are often overlooked, especially among younger individuals,” she said.

Elina was speaking in conjunction with Avisena Healthcare’s role as the Official Healthcare Partner of the Twincity Marathon 2026, held on Jan 18 at Dataran Putrajaya, which attracted about 21,000 participants from various backgrounds, including youths, families and recreational runners.

Avisena Healthcare ambulance units on standby to promptly attend to runners requiring medical attention during the marathon.

She expressed concern over the rising incidence of cardiovascular-related conditions among younger people, warning that inactive lifestyles are taking a toll earlier in life.

“Heart health is not an issue affecting only the elderly. When inactivity becomes the norm, the effects begin to surface at a much younger age, impacting not just physical health but also energy levels, mental wellbeing and overall quality of life,” she said.

She said large-scale community sporting events play an important role in encouraging early, positive health habits by making wellness more accessible and less intimidating.

“Events like this allow people to see health as something that can be built progressively. Starting with movement, understanding the body’s needs and maintaining balance in daily life lays the foundation for long-term wellbeing,” she added.

Doctors and medical teams from Avisena Healthcare providing on-site treatment to participants who sustained injuries during the Twincity Marathon 2026.

Twincity Marathon 2026 marked Avisena Healthcare’s continued involvement with the event, having supported it since 2024, reflecting what Elina described as a sustained commitment to engaging communities beyond clinical settings.

As Official Healthcare Partner, Avisena Healthcare said its participation reflects a broader role in promoting preventive care, healthy lifestyles and early awareness, aligned with its long-term goal of supporting a healthier and more resilient society in the years ahead.