Published on: Saturday, July 04, 2009 |
Kuala Lumpur: Scuba diving could be the best therapy to overcome depression which is on the rise in the country, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Datuk Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib.
He said the country's seas and shores with its varied flora and fauna could reduce and even overcome a diver's stress.
Sulaiman said among divers' havens were the very popular islands of Sipadan , Perhentian, Layang-layang, Payar and Tioman.
"We have many attractive destinations for scuba diving therefore make good use of God's gift to overcome stress.
"Furthermore the water temperatures here are not seasonal so one could swim, dive or participate in other water sports all year round," he told reporters after officiating the Malaysia International Dive Expo 2009 here.
Sulaiman said the Tourism Ministry was actively promoting Sipadan Island like it was one of seven wonders of the world.
"Sipadan Island has everything to offer to awe anyone. We have turtles, fish, corals and much marine life. I myself feel like a child whenever I experience underwater life till I forget work, stress and problems," he said.
Various efforts are being carried out to encourage participation of children in scuba diving by setting up the Scuba Rangers Force for local and foreign kids.
"This group will become the catalyst for the diving industry in the country," he added.
Apart from the an exhibition, there are workshops, seminars and drawing and colouring competitions for children as well as an interactive video presentation on marine life.
More than 100 companies are taking part in the three-day expo which will end this Sunday.
