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Beauty & Health, Kid's Health, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

Top 5 Best Healthcare Centres in Selangor, Malaysia

As Malaysia prepares for its lockdown due to the novel coronavirus, or COVID19, those in the Selangor state of the country can look to these five healthcare centres for their health needs. The following article is written by Muhammad Afiq Dinie bin Nor Arzaimi at Tourism Selangor.

“The goal of real healthcare reform must be high-quality and universal coverage in a cost-effective way”. Every hospital plays a very important role in caring for every patient who comes for treatment. Therefore, we would like to recommend to you the Top 5 Best Healthcare Centres here in Selangor, Malaysia.

1. KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital

KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital is conveniently located in an upscale area of Kuala Lumpur that has become a center for expatriates and young urban executives. KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital is part of the KPJ Healthcare Group, one of the leading private healthcare providers in the region with more than 29 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Local and international patients most commonly visit this hospital to seek treatment in the department of Cardiology, Bariatric Surgery, Oncology, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Orthopaedic and Paediatric & Neonatology and also for general health screening.

2. Sunway Specialist Centre Damansara

Image provided by Tourism Selangor

Sunway Specialist Centre Damansara (SSCD) focuses on delivering outpatient specialist consultation and day surgery services. SSCD is a subsidiary of Sunway Medical Centre (SunMed), one of the largest private healthcare providers in Malaysia. Both SSCD and SunMed is equipped with modern facilities and equipment, supported by a team of caring and experienced healthcare professionals including medical consultants, allied health staff and dedicated nurses. 

3. The Tun Hussein Onn National Eye Hospital

Image provided by Tourism Selangor

The Tun Hussein Onn National Eye Hospital (THONEH) was established in 1986 by the late Yang Amat Berhormat (YAB) Tun Hussein Onn, the third Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Chairman of the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) (1975 – 1990). For more than 30 years, Tun Hussein Onn National Eye Hospital has built a strong reputation as a centre of excellence providing quality specialised eye healthcare with expertise in a comprehensive range of sub-specialties by using the latest technology which can offer the most advanced medical treatments in its field. 

4. Avisena Specialist Hospital

Image provided by Tourism Selangor

Avisena Specialist Hospital is located just 15 minutes away from Subang Airport, in the capital city of Selangor with a driving distance of 35 minutes to Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The hospital was officiated by the current Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj and was graced by Her Royal Highness Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin. Also present at the launch was YAB Tuan Amirudin Shari, Menteri Besar of Selangor. Avisena Specialist Hospital is a fast-growing healthcare group in Shah Alam offering a combined spectrum of primary care, specialist services and health wellness programs to serve healthcare needs of our community, local and international customers.

5. Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Rimau

Image provided by Tourism Selangor

Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Rimau is a multi-specialty hospital located in Shah Alam and within reach of the communities in Subang Jaya, Klang and surrounding neighborhoods. Columbia Asia Hospital is staffed with highly skilled doctors and nurses with a vast range of up-to-date facilities and services. The Bukit Rimau hospital also covers an array of medical specialties such as Cardiology, Orthopaedic, Rheumatology, Sports Injury Medicine, Paediatrics, General Surgery, Radiology and Urology. 

Each hospital requires highly skilled panel doctors in a variety of medical field and speciality. It is important that hospitals and healthcare providers are able to attend to and treat patients with utmost dedication and proper care.

Events, Fitness, Sport

Reach The Finish Line In Style With IRONMAN® At One&Only Desaru Coast

The iconic IRONMAN® competition is coming to the shores of Desaru Coast in 2020, and One&Only Desaru Coast has launched a curated wellness programme for fitness enthusiasts and triathletes taking part in the competition. 

Available from 17 – 19 April 2020, guests of the resort will be able to take advantage of bespoke physical activities and culinary options to complement and elevate their individual training plans, as well as join the resort’s inaugural Bonfire Legends event and vibrant pre-race party at Ember Beach Club. 

IRONMAN® is one of the most challenging endurance races in the world and triathletes taking part in the Desaru Coast course on 19 April will tackle a 1.9km swim in the clear sea waters, a 90km bike ride along the coast and a 21.1km run around the perimeter of The Els Club Golf Course. Racegoers that book the Ironman programme at One&Only Desaru Coast will be able start race day with a healthy breakfast, specially tailored to cater to specific nutrition plans, and supplies of house-made protein bars and electrolyte water for energy and hydration. Family and friends supporting the participants can cheer athletes on from the One&Only Pit Stop throughout the day, which will include seating areas, refreshing drinks and music sets by the resident DJ. 

The weekend will also see the launch of One&Only Desaru Coast’s inaugural Bonfire Legends sessions, a series of intimate, quarterly events that will bring together the biggest names in every industry from health to sustainability, to inspire and ignite conversation around a variety of topics. A convivial evening set around a bonfire alongside canapes and drinks, the interactive discussion on 17 April will be hosted by Malaysian Ironman triathlete Ng Seow Kong and sports psychologist Dr. Jay-Lee Nair who will facilitate a lively discourse on competitive training and how athletes can optimise their regime for a healthy mind and body. 

To celebrate the inaugural race with the community and their supporters, Ember Beach Club will be hosting the biggest pre-event party on the coast, featuring dynamic DJs, live entertainment and a delicious menu of expertly grilled prime meats and fresh seafood with Asian flavours prepared by acclaimed Chef Andrew Walsh. With two infinity pools overlooking the sea, Ember Beach Club’s shady cabanas are perfect for those seeking a leisurely afternoon, fresh juice in hand, whilst water sports are available for adrenaline-pumping action on the beach. Taking place from 2pm to 6pm on Saturday, 18 April, the pre-race party will include a dedicated carbohydrate–loaded set menu and special non-alcoholic beverage to energise race goers alongside the beats of the live DJ set. Whilst open to the public, 

One&Only Desaru Coast guests will be given priority reservations for a table or cabana. The world-class fitness facilities at One&Only Desaru Coast are a haven for athletes, providing a diverse array of options; from the indoor and outdoor gym featuring top-of-the-line Technogym® equipment, to the Pilates studio for alignment-based training, and personal trainers poised to devise a bespoke workout on the beach or provide a lesson in the ancient Malaysian martial art of Silat Melayu. The resort boasts a tennis academy and tennis courts as well as Malaysia’s first Padel courts, as well as offering other activities to vary training programmes, including water sports such as paddle boarding and wakeboarding, kayaking, yoga, tree climbing and jungle trekking. 

To restore and recover post-race or training, guests can choose from a selection of bespoke treatments available at the resort’s Chenot Spa. The sanctuary-like spa is home to 10 private consultation rooms with adjourning forest-facing treatment rooms, a relaxation pavilion, hot-and-cold pools, steam and sauna facilities and a professional hair salon. 

The revolutionary spa takes wellness to the next level with a unique scientific and holistic approach to health and wellbeing, developed in partnership with Chenot, leaders in wellness with nearly 50 years in practice. Offering the benefits of select elements of the Chenot Method® – a rigorous and research-driven framework for achieving optimum health, the spa integrates the latest scientific advances in Western medicine and diagnostics such as Body Composition Analysis and Cardio Respiratory Fitness Assessment with the best in Chinese and alternative medicines, the menu of research-led and holistic wellness programmes is designed to reset the body, strengthen resilience and improve metabolic efficiency. 

Guests are encouraged to enjoy spa treatments depending on their physical needs, and highlights include the Chenot Detox Body Massage to drain away deep toxins, Chenot Connective Tissue Massage to release tension due to muscle inflammation and Chenot Regenerating Treatment designed to stimulate deep breathing and relieve stress. Those looking to accelerate their fitness journey can also opt for the signature three-day Chenot Fitness Programme, which includes nutritional consultations, a full physical and biochemical assessment as well as deep tissue massages and personal training sessions. 

The Ironman Desaru Coast offer is available from 17 – 19 April 2020, starting from MYR7,000/SGD$2,315 per suite for two nights and includes a daily healthy tailored breakfast, exclusive Ironman welcome amenities, specialist snacks including protein bars and electrolyte water, resort credit of MYR 500/ SGD$164 per suite per night and an invitation to Bonfire Legends evening hosted by a panel of esteemed speakers (terms and conditions apply). 

One&Only Desaru Coast will begin welcoming guests on 23 March 2020. For more information on the resort, please visit: oneandonlydesarucoast.com 

Rugby, Sport

World Rugby sets four-year blueprint to develop future stars of the emerging unions

World Rugby has announced details of the new strategy for its High Performance Combine in the Pacific Islands, focusing on identifying, developing and investing in domestic Pacific Island talent to participate at Rugby World Cup 2023 and 2027.

Launched in 2018, 51 players have graduated from the High Performance Combines in the Pacific Islands of which 13 players were prepared for international rugby with Frank Lomani (Fiji) and James Faiva (Tonga) progressing to star at Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

The World Rugby-funded programme gives emerging talent access to some of the world’s best coaches and strength and conditioning experts, preparing players for the modern elite rugby environment. The programme is delivered in cooperation with the Pacific Rugby Players who assist to deliver wellbeing and personal development workshops.

Players are assessed and evaluated at the conclusion of the Combine by World Rugby’s High Performance consultants with the programme’s elite being offered an opportunity to be placed within the world’s elite competitions. World Rugby’s Scholarship programme has seen players placed into teams with the Gallagher Premiership, Global Rapid Rugby, Mitre 10, Major League Rugby, PRO14, Superliga Americana de Rugby and Super Rugby.

The new four-year cycle begins with the Pacific Combine in Suva, Fiji, on 15-18 March, which is hosted immediately after the World Rugby Pacific Challenge 2020 (6-14 March). The programme will run annually with the aim to nurture test-level talents and reflects World Rugby’s wider commitment to support Pacific Islands unions.

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaummont said: “Greater depth of competition at Rugby World Cup is dependent on robust strategies to lift high performance and the Pacific Challenge, combined with the Pacific Combine, is a proven developer and enabler of Pacific Island talent, creating a pathway to international rugby. I would like to wish everyone involved in this project the very best of luck.”

WATCH PACIFIC COMBINE WORLD RUGBY FILM >>

A twin programme in the Americas

A twin project will offer a similar long-term vision on the other side of the Pacific Ocean. Working closely with Rugby Canada and USA Rugby, the North America Combine will aim to identify prospective talents and invite them to participate in both unions high-performance academies, the Pacific Pride (Canada) and the USA Rugby National Academy (USA).

Following the North America Combine, which is scheduled for 21-27 June in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, selected players will be offered full-time scholarships in their unions high performance academy system.

The immersion and exposure of academy level players into high performance environments will fast track the development of targeted players, while increasing the domestic North American player pool available for Major League Rugby (MLR) teams. By increasing the competitiveness and quality of the MLR, the programme will enhance the high-performance outcomes of both Canada and the USA national teams.

World Rugby Vice-Chairman and Americas Rugby President Agustín Pichot said: “The development of a truly global game requires a global vision for the development and promotion of the best emerging talent from unions where a high performance programme is hard to access.

“The North America Combine is an innovative and exciting programme that does not just identify talent. It nurtures and supports players on and off the field, providing a club and a community that supports a player in being the best they can be as a person and as a player.”

World Rugby General Manager High Performance Peter Horne said: “The High Performance Combine programme is an amazing opportunity for Pacific Islands and North America to identify and develop the most promising talents in their region.

“The Combine has proven its effectiveness with successful alumni making it to the highest level and we are delighted to renew our commitment with a long-term vision that will increase unions’ competitiveness.”

Beauty & Health, Kid's Health, Men's Health, Wellness, Women's Health

Ayurvedic home remedies by CGH Earth Wellness in conjunction with World Sleep Day

Today, Friday 13 March, is World Sleep Day. It is an annual event intended to be a celebration of sleep and a call to action on important issues related to sleep. Studies have found that Malaysians are amongst the world’s worst sleepers.

Now, some of you may think that you don’t need sleep or that you can catch up with sleep later due to numerous reasons. One of them may be because of that deadline you have to meet. Or, for new parents, the numerous wake up times your new arrival has at night is wreaking havoc with your sleep.

According to a national sleep survey done by Nielsen Malaysia in 2018, nine in 10 Malaysians suffer from one or more sleep problems. Nearly half of them reported that they wake up in the middle of the night, while just under a third say they feel tired and unrested in the morning, feel sleepy or have fallen asleep during the day.

For many, treating the cause of these conditions is vital and here is where CGH Earth Wellness, the brand behind a collection of leading luxury Ayurvedic hospitals in beautiful Kerala, India, believes that the ancient practice of Ayurveda could provide a helping hand when it comes to restoring the quality of your sleep. 

Below are some tips from our friends at CGH Earth Wellness.

Ayurvedic Home Remedies by CGH Earth Wellness 

In Ayurveda, sleep disorders are called Alpa nidra and insomnia is known as Anidra. According to Ayurveda, the doshas responsible for this disease are Tarpak Kapha, Sadhak Pitta or Prana Vata. 

Insomnia due to lack of proper nutrition Tarpak Kapha is a sub-dosha of Kapha (water). It nourishes the brain cells and facilitates a good night’s sleep. Imbalance of this dosha causes poor nourishment of brain cells, leading to insomnia. This happens to those who are deprived by circumstances and few due to food faddism. 

Tips: 

● Take carbohydrate- and fat-rich foods at night before 8:00 PM 

● Drink fat-rich milk with nutmeg and jaggery or sugar before bedtime. 

Insomnia in workaholics Sadhak Pitta is a sub-dosha of Pitta (fire) and is located in the heart. It controls one’s emotions, desires, decisiveness, and spirituality. An imbalance in Sadhak Pitta makes a person demanding and a workaholic, thereby leading to situations that may cause a lack of sleep. 

Tips: 

● Drink ash gourd or sugar cane juice after dinner. 

● Take 5 soaked almonds at bedtime. 

● Drink 100 ml of lukewarm almond milk at bedtime 

Insomnia due to anxiety and stress Prana Vata is a sub-dosha of Vata (air). It is linked to insomnia, anxiety, and conditions such as depression. As Prana Vata makes the nervous system sensitive, a sensitive nervous system coupled with an aggravated Prana Vata leads to insomnia. 

Tips: 

● Wash your legs with warm water and massage your feet with butter. 

● Make a paste of milk and butter and apply that paste over your bregma (crown of the head) and feet. 

Rugby, Sport

New research links Japan’s Rugby World Cup hosting with national pride and excitement boost

Rugby World Cup hosting was a catalyst for national pride growth in Japan, capturing the imagination, growing rugby interest and leaving a positive legacy for the sport, according to a major new study.


Japan 2019, which was won by South Africa, saw the best-ever performance of the Japanese Brave Blossoms as the hosts became the first team from Asia to reach the quarter-finals during a tournament that broke viewership, engagement, match and fan-zone attendance records.

GAME-CHANGING RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019 IS A RECORD-BREAKER >>

Another major endorsement of the significant positive impact of Rugby World Cup as a high return on investment proposition for host nations and unions, the Nielsen Sports DNA study immediately after the tournament determined:

  • 78 per cent of the general public thought that Rugby World Cup hosting in a so-called “non-traditional” rugby market was positive for the future of the sport
  • 46 per cent of the general public thought Rugby World Cup was the most exciting sporting event of 2019 (70 per cent in Japan), compared to 25 per cent who disagreed, demonstrating the value of hosting to international marketing and national pride
  • The level of Rugby World Cup interest almost doubled from 26 per cent in 2018 to 44 per cent in 2019, representing more than 50 million people
  • Nine out of 10 people in Japan believed that Rugby World Cup hosting captured the imagination, boosting national pride, excitement and engagement
  • Nine out of 10 people in Japan got behind the national team on their run to the quarter-finals, reflecting a 33 per cent increase in ‘niwaka fans’ or new fans during the tournament
  • 83 per cent of people in Japan believe that hosting Rugby World Cup generated a positive legacy for rugby, delivering future major rugby event hosting opportunities for Japan
  • 50 per cent of those in Japan who followed Rugby World Cup had become interested in the sport in the last year, highlighting the significant legacy opportunity for host nations
  • 54 per cent of those in Japan who followed the tournament were doing so for the first time
  • 74 per cent of Japanese who were aware of Rugby World Cup believe that the tournament will encourage more children to play the sport

Almost half the population – a staggering 54.8 million – tuned-in on national free-to-air broadcaster NTV to watch Japan’s decisive pool match against Scotland, representing a single market audience record for rugby, while a record 1.2 million people visited fan-zones the length and breadth of the nation.

Another record was set with a 99.3 per cent of available tickets sold across the 45 matches, reinforcing Rugby World Cup as one of the must-see events. More than 400,000 international visitors travelled to Japan, many for the first time, to witness a unique celebration of rugby and Japanese culture.


Importantly, a dedicated partnership between World Rugby, Asia Rugby and the Japan Rugby Football Union saw 2.27 million new participants get into rugby in Asia since 2016 (1.17 million in Japan) through an innovative participation model.

A dual selection process for 2027 and 2031

The research comes as World Rugby prepares to announce details of the host selection process for Rugby World Cup 2027 and 2031.

The dual selection process, which will launch later this month, will enable World Rugby to select an optimal combination of hosts, as achieved for England 2015 and Japan 2019. The process will give successful candidates a longer preparation time that will optimise deliver and cost management.


World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “We believe that Japan 2019 was one of the great Rugby World Cups and this latest study proves that hosting is of significant value to the host nation.


“Rugby World Cup is not just a six-week world-class sporting event, it is an attraction, a driver of sporting, social and economic growth and a low-investment, high return-on-investment proposition for host nations and host unions.


“Japan was a model of that statement. It maximised the hosting opportunity with full buy-in from national governments, host cities and the wider public. It was a unique shop window for the whole of Japan, its culture, tourism and business.”

Beauty & Health, Wellness, Women's Health

Let’s talk endometriosis and mental health – don’t suffer in silence

  • One in ten women suffer from the condition which can take up to 7 years to diagnose
  • Endometriosis can affect mental and lead to depression and anxiety

Did you know that endometriosis is one of the hardest conditions to diagnose? There is no specific screening for the condition, and different women suffer from it in many different ways.

Endometriosis refers to a medical condition where tissues that normally lines the inside of the uterus – the endometrium – grows outside the uterus. This can cause severe pain during one’s menstrual period. 

This March is endometriosis awareness month and Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) is highlighting the importance of women taking care of their physical and mental health by getting the necessary medical care and support required. 

Signs of endometriosis

Endometriosis affects one out of ten women worldwide. The condition can take up to 7 years to diagnose, with 68% of young girls and women being misdiagnosed and 30-50% of women at risk of infertility. Those who suffer from endometriosis will experience symptoms in different ways. Symptoms include:

  • Constant fatigue
  • Painful periods
  • Heavy flow of menstrual blood 
  • Pain during sexual intercourse 

A key topic that is not often discussed is how the physical pain endured can lead to mental health issues. As endometriosis is not easily diagnosed, patients are unable to express what they are going through clearly and accurately, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Social stigma surrounding the condition is a further deterrent, causing patients to isolate themselves as they do not feel understood or heard. This then prevents them from seeking the necessary help to treat the condition.

Be a pillar of support to lessen psychological impact

SMCV’s resident Obstetrics & Gynaecology Specialist, Dr. Wong Yen Shi emphasises the importance of seeking help not just from medical specialists, but also from support groups.

SMCV’s Resident Obstetrics & Gynaecology Specialist, Dr. Wong Yen Shi emphasises the importance of seeking help not just from medical specialists, but also from support groups.

“Although the first and most important step to take is to treat the pain, it is also crucial for the patient to receive support from their family members, partners and friends. The psychological impact of such a debilitating disease should be addressed and not taken lightly as it can affect their social function. Decline in quality of life, negative emotions, stress, anxiety or depression may occur as a result of the pain that they go through,” Dr. Wong stresses. 

Such hindrances may cause women to be a recurring absentee from work or school, and even face frequent hospitalisation from the pain – about 82% of women are unable to carry out their day-to-day activities because of endometriosis and its effects. 

Dr. Wong notes that there are many ways in which one can show their support for the patient. It begins with understanding endometriosis – its symptoms, treatment, the side effects of medication as well as how it impacts the patient’s life. 

“One can simply show their support by keeping in touch and checking on the patient and asking how they can help. Be observant to the signs that the patient exhibits when they are going through the pain. Take notes and remember them for the future and be understanding when they are unable to attend to social events as they may be going through chronic fatigue. They may tend to isolate themselves as they feel like a burden, so they may appreciate you reaching out,” she adds. 

Seek professional help

Patients should also join support groups and seek professional help if they are going through any emotional distress as a result of suffering from endometriosis. Professionals and specialists are at hand to discuss the best way in which the patient can manage their challenges and cope better. The more patients talk about their pain, the more their experiences will normalise. 

Ending the social stigma surrounding endometriosis is a shared responsibility for all. Let’s work together to enable more women to come forth about their struggles, and in return aid others who are going through the same battles. 

Kid's Health, Wellness

How 2′-FL Has Changed Childhood Nutrition

2′-FL (2′-fucosyllactose) is a special nutrient, and the third most abundant component of breast milk. In the last two decades, how these prebiotics benefit children and why it’s important for them to be included in a child’s diet has become more widely understood. 

Breakthrough research by Abbott shows that 2′-FL can provide health benefits to a growing child and plays a role in supporting the development of a strong body defense system. Abbott was the first company in the world to include this important ingredient in growing-up milk, bringing about one of the biggest advances in children’s nutrition in the last decade. 

Probiotic and Prebiotic Basics About 70% of the body’s defense system resides in the gut, so it’s crucial to give your growing child the building blocks they need from the start. 

Probiotics, also known as beneficial bacteria, are live microorganisms located in the intestinal tract. Prebiotics are not bacteria, but they provide the food source that probiotics need to survive. 

2′-FL acts as a prebiotic that feeds the beneficial bacteria in a child’s gut, helping them to flourish, and supports the development of the body’s defense system in the early years of life1. 2′-FL has also been shown to support the defense system beyond the gut. 

Developing a Strong Body Defense System A child’s body defense system develops rapidly early in life, and nutrition is critical to that development. 

The new Similac Gold Gain Plus (Stage 3) with 2′-FL and Gain Kid (Stage 4) with 2′-FL can help your child’s developing body defense system. 2′-FL and nucleotides (an essential building block in the body) found in Similac Gold support a child’s digestive system as well as strengthen their body defense system. 

2′-FL supports the innate body defense system of children, like their skin and stomach lining, acting like gates and walls to protect them. It acts as a decoy for germs, preventing it from affecting the cells and causing illness1. 

On the other hand, nucleotides support children’s adaptive body defense system, which consist of specialized cells that eliminate pathogens in the body. 

Strong Children Learn Faster Science has shown that a child’s body defense system can also have a significant effect on their brain development2. And research has shown that a strong body defense system goes hand-in- hand with better cognition to help children learn faster3. 

Keeping children strong during their formative years is important for their development. If children frequently fall sick, they may not be able to concentrate and learn. 

Research has found that the longer children suffer from illnesses, the worse they perform on developmental tests2. In the absence of illnesses, nutrients are utilized for brain development, which encourages stimulation that promotes learning4. 

When children fall sick, the body diverts nutrients to fight the illness. This leads to reduced stimulation that interrupts learning and compromises cognitive development. Every sick day can reduce a child’s learning, growth and developmental potential5. 

Since 85% of a child’s brain growth occurs in the first three years of life, it is crucial to keep children strong so that they can learn faster. 

“By harnessing the unique qualities of 2′-FL, we can nourish the developing digestive and body defense systems in children, which then contributes to their overall brain development for faster learning. We want to support parents in enabling them to give their children the strongest possible start with good nutrition and health,” says Dr Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Medical Director of Abbott Nutrition Malaysia. 

1 Vandenplas Y, Berger B, Carnielli V et al. Human Milk Oligosaccharides: 2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL) and Lacto-N- Neotetraose (LNnT) in Infant Formula. Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164445/. Last accessed December 5, 2019. 2 Psych Central. Immune system strongly tied to children’s brain development. Available from https://psychcentral.com/news/2014/03/02/immune-system-strongly-tied-to-childrens-brain- development/66562.html. Last accessed July 6, 2019. 3 Marin I, Kipnis J. Learning and memory… and the immune system. Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3768198/. Last accessed December 5, 2019. 4 Georgieff M, Cusick S. The Role of Nutrition in Brain Development: The Golden Opportunity of the “First 1000 Days”. Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4981537/. Last accessed December 5, 2019. 5 Eppig et al. Proc. R. Soc. B. 2010; 277:3801–3808. 


AFTNews, Sport

Thai League hosts Sportradar integrity workshop

The Thai League has just concluded its 2020 Integrity Workshop, conducted by Sportradar Integrity Services; the world’s leading supplier of sports integrity solutions.

The integrity workshop was held at the Thai League 2020 Team Managers’ Meeting on 16 January at Alexander Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. In attendance were team managers at all clubs from Thai League 1 through to Thai League 4. This integrity workshop featured interactive learning and real-life situations to highlight the common threats to sports integrity, such as match-fixing and misuse of inside information, and the risks of being involved in such schemes.

Underpinned by a focus on prevention, team managers were informed of relevant rules and regulations, and best practices to help adhere to them, and are now ready to transmit this information to their players and staff members ahead of the 2020 season. This will ensure that all Thai football clubs are equipped and ready to uphold their responsibilities to integrity during the year ahead. As outlined in the workshop, any integrity concerns can be reported in confidence to the following email address: integrity@thaileague.co.th

After the integrity workshop, a separate meeting was also held with the Thai League’s integrity team, with positive discussions on industry best practices and how integrity measures in the Thai League can be enhanced. This was not the first time the two have worked together, as Sportradar Integrity Services, the AFC, and the Thai League previously collaborated on a 2017 match-fixing investigation which led to 12 arrests including referees and players for match-fixing in the Thai leagues.

Speaking about the workshop, Andrew Whittingham, Head of Education, Integrity Services,said: “The Thai League are a valued and proactive partner of ours, and have showcasedtheir commitment to integrity through preventative measures such as this integrity workshop. Team managers throughout Thai football are now armed with the knowledge to transmit to their teams about the integrity risks they face, and how to overcome them in today’s football environment. We look forward to continuing to support the Thai League on integrity mattersthroughout the rest of this season and into the future”.

Benjamin Tan, Thai League Deputy CEO added: “Sportradar have demonstrated their commitment to keeping Asian sport clean throughout the past decade, and it was this track record which made them the clear and obvious choice to help deliver integrity education to our teams. Team managers are the loudest voice in the dressing room, and by equipping them with the most up-to-date knowledge of integrity risks and how to respond to them, players throughout the country will now be ready to uphold their responsibilities to the Thai game ahead of the new season”.

AFT Features, AFT TV

Interview: Marilee Pierce Dunker, World Vision Ambassador

Video

Team AFTNN had the honour of meeting and interviewing Marilee Pierce Dunker, World Vision ambassador and daughter of founder, Bob Pierce. This was recorded at the World Vision office in Kuala Lumpur in May 2019. During her visit to Malaysia, Ms. Dunker visited and gave inspirational talks at schools and colleges.

Date:
19 April 2020 (Sunday)

Time:
7am – 9am

Venue:
Dataran DBKL 1,
Jalan Raja Laut, Kuala Lumpur (starting and finishing line)

RM60 per participant
There will be a child-friendly 2.5km route in addition to the normal 7km route.

AsiaFitnessToday.com is a proud supporter of World Vision’s #RunforChildren. Visit https://www.worldvision.com.my/run-for-children to sign up.

AFTNews, Rugby, Sport

Rugby World Cup 2021 set to break new ground as tournament dates are announced

  • The dates for RWC 2021 have been announced as tournament heads to Southern Hemisphere for first time
  • Matches to be played at Waitakere Stadium, Northland Events Centre and Auckland’s Eden Park from 18 September to 16 October 2021
  • Tournament brand unveiled symbolising the power and growth of women’s rugby
  • World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont praises preparations
  • Spark Sport announced as host broadcast rights holder for RWC 2021

With just over 18 months to go, World Rugby and New Zealand Rugby have today marked another exciting milestone on the road to Rugby World Cup 2021 (RWC 2021) with the announcement of the tournament dates and the unveiling of the tournament brand in front of a special gathering at the venue for the final, Auckland’s Eden Park.

With the draw to be undertaken later this year, RWC 2021 matches will be played across three world-class venues – Waitakere Stadium, Whangarei’s Northland Events Centre and Auckland’s Eden Park – in what will be a significant milestone for women’s rugby in the southern hemisphere.

The pool stage of the competition will be contested across three match days – Saturday 18, Thursday 23 and Tuesday 28 September – and will be hosted at Waitakere Stadium and Whangarei’s Northland Events Centre.

The quarter-finals, which are a new addition to the women’s competition for RWC 2021, will take place on Sunday 3 October at the aforementioned venues. Eden Park will host the semi-finals on Saturday 9 October before the bronze match and RWC 2021 final will be held on Saturday 16 October. For New Zealand viewers, all games will be broadcast live and on demand by official RWC 2021 host broadcast rights holder Spark Sport, with selected games televised free-to-air.

The tournament brand unveiled today has been developed by World Rugby and New Zealand Rugby in close consultation with local cultural advisors. The RWC 2021 brand has the vitality and connectivity of the ocean’s waters at its heart and features the ‘Ngaru’ – a symbol of the ocean’s waves that surround New Zealand and the many shores that teams will travel from to compete in this ground-breaking tournament. Watch the brand video here.

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont, Rugby World Cup 2021 Tournament Director Alison Hughes and General Manager of Women’s Rugby Kate Sadleir are in New Zealand for venue visits to help the host venues and host cities prepare for the southern hemisphere’s first hosting of the showcase tournament.

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “Women’s rugby is the single-biggest opportunity to grow the global game, and we are confident that New Zealand 2021 will be one of the great Rugby World Cups, attracting a new fan and player base for the sport.

“RWC 2021 follows a hugely successful 2017 event in Ireland which broke attendance and broadcast records, having a hugely positive impact on women’s rugby. Last year we successfully launched ‘Try and Stop Us’, a campaign that aims to drive increased participation and engagement among fans, audiences, players and investors in the women’s game.

“It is a privilege to be here in New Zealand and to see the huge amount of work that has already gone into ensuring this will be another spectacular tournament for the world’s best women’s teams.”

NZR Chief Executive Mark Robinson welcomed the World Rugby officials to Eden Park today, marking a key milestone in the logistical preparation required for hosting one of World Rugby’s pinnacle events.

“This is an event we are very excited to be hosting and we can’t wait to have the world’s best women’s teams play here. The Black Ferns love playing at home and I know they are excited at the prospect of retaining the Rugby World Cup at home.

“Together with the support from Central Government, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, and Whangarei District Council we are committed to working alongside World Rugby to deliver an exciting event that continues to grow the game and deliver benefits for rugby in New Zealand and globally.

“As part of the bid team that presented to World Rugby in Dublin in 2018, it is now a real privilege to continue to be involved in the delivery of the tournament and to see preparations come to life.

“We share World Rugby’s global ambition of getting more women and girls involved in rugby and RWC 2021 is a great way to showcase women’s rugby at an elite level and provide inspiration for boys and girls to get involved in our game,” Robinson said.

RWC 2021 will be the first RWC to adopt a gender-neutral naming approach after World Rugby announced last year that its flagship 15s and sevens RWC properties will no longer include gender in their titles, furthering its commitment to equality and brand consistency across its portfolio.

Beaumont added: “We are proud that RWC has adopted a gender-neutral naming approach to its properties – a bold and important move – and we are looking forward to seeing this come to life following the unveiling of the tournament brand here in Auckland today.”

RWC 2021 Organising Committee Chair Dame Julie Christie said: “New Zealand Rugby is highly experienced in the operational planning and delivery of world class events with sustainable commercial returns and plans are already well on track to make RWC 2021 an outstanding event.”

The event was held at Eden Park with Black Ferns Kendra Cocksedge, Aleisha-Pearl Nelson, Charmaine McMenamin, Ruahei Demant and Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu running a skills and drills session with children from Birkdale Primary, Ahuroa School, Horizon School and Woodhill School.

The RWC 2021 supports World Rugby’s Women’s Plan 2017-25, NZR’s Women’s Rugby Strategy and the New Zealand Government’s Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation Strategy.