Author(s): Mohd. Salleh Aman, Gunathevan Elumalai, Vellapandian Ponnusamy and Shariffah Mamat

Abstract:
Physical activities contributes towards healthy life style. Participating regularly in physical activities should become a culture in our life. This study applied Social Cognitive Theory to determine perspectives on physical activity and how it is correlate among the Malaysian major ethnic groups with different culture. This quantitative research using a self-develop questionnaire conducted among 269 respondents with an approximate distribution of 50-30-20 (Malay - Chinese - Indian) ratio selected randomly in Peninsular Malaysia. The results showed most of the respondents agreed that sport events promote socialization and agreed participation in physical activities reduces the risk of heart diseases. They also confident that participation in sports develops self-control and could give personal satisfaction. Majority of them less agrees that participating in physical activities is dangerous and risky for children and may cause physical handicap. Involvement in physical activity is worthy as a leisure and they also agreed (Malay 87%, Chinese 81% and Indian 84%) that people may feel freedom and avoid boredom. Malaysians are confident and believe that physical activity bring benefits in term of social, wellbeing, personal, risk and safety and leisure. Despite the existence of differences of what to wear, what to eat, what to belief and how to get along with others, the three main ethnic groups in Malaysia, did not show significant differences regarding their perspectives on participation in physical activity. Its’ good sign of unity and prosperity among Malaysians through involvement in physical activity.

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