New NS module to tackle obesity

The National Service Training Department will introduce a new module to overcome obesity and physical health problems among trainees.

National Service Training Department director-general Datuk Abdul Hadi Awang Kechil said the new module to be known as 'Healthy Lifestyle' would be implemented for the second batch of trainees (Series 1/2013) starting early next year.

He said the module was tested during a pilot project that involved 1,000 trainees and the result showed 504 (obese) had lost weight while 487 with physical health problems had gained weight.

"The study was done by physical education experts in Sultan Idris Teachers’ University (UPSI), Tanjung Malim, Perak after a directive by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi," Abdul Hadi told reporters after visiting NS trainees from Seri Impian, Sungai Bakap, Seberang Perai undergoing shooting practice at the Batalion Dua Kem Pasukan Gerakan Am (PGA) shooting range here today.

He said the study was carried out over a 10-week period.

He added that the module would only be introduced at selected camps and that trainers for the programme were already undergoing the relevant training.