Malaysia launches workplace wellness initiative for 60,000 civil servants in Putrajaya

Through the Putrajaya Sihat Sejahtera (PSS) initiative, Malaysia’s Ministry of Health is encouraging public sector employees to lead healthier lives starting with simple steps and fun activities.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (KKM) is looking to take a more active approach to workplace wellness, and they are starting with their own civil servants.

To mark World Physical Activity Day (WoPAD) on 6 April 2025, KKM launched a series of engaging events at Dataran Putrajaya. These included a Syawal Fun Walk, an ‘aerofithon’, traditional games, fitness challenges, and free health screenings. All these are part of the broader Putrajaya Sihat Sejahtera (PSS) initiative, which runs from 2024 to 2030.

The goal is to make healthy living part of everyday life for more than 60,000 civil servants in Putrajaya.

What does PSS cover?

The PSS initiative is built around seven focus areas and 15 key actions, covering topics such as:

• Active living
• Healthy eating
• Supportive environment
• Health screening
• Healthy mind

So far, PSS has been introduced in 25 ministries and agencies, with participation said to be growing steadily.

Why fun matters

This year’s WoPAD theme of “Have A Good Time! Be Active” highlights how physical activity does not have to feel like a chore. The more enjoyable it is, the more likely people are to keep it up, KKM noted.

As part of the event, YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad also officiated the upcoming Putrajaya Inter-Ministry Healthy Steps Challenge, set to take place from 13 to 27 May 2025.

The challenge, aimed at encouraging more movement among civil servants, saw strong participation in 2024, with 612 teams and over 13,000 civil servants' employees (19.2% of the Putrajaya public service) taking part.

This year, the Ministry is hoping to raise that number even further, using friendly competition to promote the daily goal of 10,000 steps as a norm in the public service.

Earlier in the day, YB Dr Dzulkefly and YB Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa joined the Syawal Fun Walk at Putrajaya Square, showing support for the initiative on the ground.

The event also saw the presence of senior government officials, including YBhg. Dato' Sri Suriani Ahmad, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Health, YBhg. Dato’ TPr. Fadlun Mak Ujud, President of Putrajaya Corporation, and YBhg. Dato’ Zahrul Hakim Abdullah, Deputy Secretary-General (Management) of KKM.

Working together for better health

Putrajaya’s PSS initiative is more than a health campaign. It is a long-term investment in the wellbeing of civil servants. Through movement, mindfulness, and community support, Malaysia is setting a healthier tone for the future of its public service sector.

Lead image / Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia Facebook