Wan Azizah Calls for Preventive Lifestyle Shift Among Creative Workers
KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 — The unpredictable routines common in the creative industry are contributing to growing health risks, prompting Bandar Tun Razak MP Wan Azizah Wan Ismail to call for a stronger emphasis on preventive health practices among artistes and cultural workers.
Addressing attendees at a community-focused Aidilfitri event, she highlighted how erratic work schedules — including late-night commitments, inconsistent sleep patterns and irregular meals — can gradually undermine both physical and mental health if left unmanaged.
“Preventive care begins with daily habits. Without discipline in areas like nutrition, exercise and rest, the long-term consequences can be serious,” she said, stressing that the issue goes beyond individual well-being to broader public health concerns.
Wan Azizah noted that creative professionals often prioritise deadlines and performances over their own health, leading to increased exposure to lifestyle-related conditions such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular issues and chronic fatigue.
She emphasised that regular physical activity plays a critical role in maintaining cardiovascular fitness, managing stress levels and improving overall mental clarity.
Equally important, she said, is maintaining balanced nutrition, particularly reducing excessive sugar and processed food intake — factors commonly linked to long-term health complications.
Her remarks were echoed by Freddie Fernandez, president of the Malaysia Artistes Association, who raised concerns about the increasing number of artistes affected by chronic illnesses.
He pointed out that conditions such as kidney-related diseases are becoming more prevalent, often associated with dietary habits and lifestyle choices.
“The industry can be demanding, but that cannot be an excuse to neglect health. Prevention is always better than treatment,” he said.
Fernandez also warned against smoking and other harmful habits, noting that these factors can accelerate the onset of serious health conditions.
Beyond health concerns, he said the association remains focused on strengthening welfare support for artistes, including fair compensation, royalty management, pension schemes and access to insurance coverage.
Efforts to address these issues are being carried out in collaboration with the MADANI Government, which has introduced measures aimed at supporting the creative sector.
Among these is the removal of entertainment tax for local performances in 2024, a policy move that has helped ease financial pressures on artistes while encouraging more industry activity.
At the same time, initiatives such as the upcoming Indie Music Festival are expected to provide platforms for emerging talent, further contributing to the sector’s sustainability.
The event also featured the launch of a telehealth kiosk under the Bandar Tun Razak parliamentary initiative, aimed at improving access to healthcare services for local residents.
Corporate sponsor BIG CARING Group contributed RM20,000 to support artistes’ welfare, alongside the distribution of 140 Rahmah contribution boxes to those in need.
Wan Azizah concluded by emphasising that sustainable careers in the creative industry must be built on a foundation of good health.
“Talent and passion are important, but without health, it is difficult to sustain success over time,” she said.
-wilayah.com.my
