MITI Urges Firms To Invest In Sports Facilities For Worker Well-being

BATU KAWAN, April 14 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has urged more companies, particularly multinational corporations (MNCs), to invest in sports facilities as part of efforts to enhance employee well-being and foster a more inclusive and sustainable workplace.

Deputy Minister Sim Tze Tzin said initiatives such as building sports complexes are increasingly seen as essential to supporting staff welfare, improving productivity and helping companies attract talent in an increasingly competitive labour market.

“Investment today is no longer focused solely on business growth, but also encompasses employee well-being, talent development and long-term sustainability,” he told reporters after officiating the opening of the Dexcom Sports Complex here today.

Also present were Dexcom Malaysia vice president of operations Sayron Ruiz and Invest Penang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian.

Sim said that while Malaysia has seen extensive industrial development, sports facilities such as football fields, basketball courts and futsal pitches remain insufficient. He stressed that companies should pay greater attention to employee health, given its direct impact on productivity.

He added that such facilities are increasingly important in meeting the expectations of today’s workforce, particularly Generation Z, who place greater emphasis on work-life balance and healthy lifestyles. These factors, he said, are becoming key considerations for job seekers when choosing an employer.

“The need to provide sports facilities is becoming more pressing as companies face intensifying competition for a limited talent pool,” he said.

Sim noted that beyond improving physical health, sports facilities also serve as platforms to strengthen teamwork, collaboration and relationships among employees, contributing to higher productivity and overall organisational well-being.

He said Dexcom exemplifies a company that balances business growth with employee welfare, while also contributing to the development of Malaysia’s high-value industrial ecosystem, particularly in continuous glucose monitoring technology.

MITI will continue to support investments that not only drive economic growth but also prioritise talent development, employee well-being and long-term sustainability, he added.

“We hope these facilities will be fully utilised and serve as a platform to strengthen collaboration, team spirit and a healthy workplace culture,” he said.

-- BERNAMA