We, the undersigned, would like to petition Suria KLCC to keep the Babel Gym open for at least another six months to a year. We are expressing our collective concern over the proposed closure of the only gym in the Suria KLCC shopping mall this Oct. 31. This facility is not just a place for physical exercise; it is a cornerstone of our health and wellbeing.

The Babel gym plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of the more than 10,000 staff working in offices in the Kuala Lumpur City Centre vicinity, including the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Tower 3, Menara Permata Sapura and also Menara Maxis and Menara ExxonMobil. It provides a convenient and accessible location for individuals to engage in regular physical activity, which is essential for maintaining physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. The gym offers various classes and programs that cater to all, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthier lifestyle.

The Babel gym is more important than ever for gym-goers after the Twin Towers Fitness Centre closed suddenly on Oct. 1 for a renovation that will last at least six months, according to a notice put up at TTFC premises late Sept. 30.

Beyond its primary function as a fitness center, the Babel gym serves as a community hub where people can socialize, build relationships, and support one another. It fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit, which is especially important in an urban setting. The gym hosts numerous events and activities that bring people together, strengthening the social fabric of our community.

The presence of the gym in the shopping mall also contributes to the local economy. It attracts a consistent flow of visitors, which benefits other businesses within the mall. The gym generates employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, through collaborations with personal trainers, fitness instructors, and other wellness professionals. Its presence adds to the prestige of the mall and surrounding businesses.

For many members of our community, the gym in the shopping mall is the only accessible fitness facility. Its central location and the availability of public transportation make it an ideal choice for those who do not have the means or time to travel to distant gyms. Closing this facility would create a void that cannot easily be filled by other options.

Eliminating the gym could have detrimental effects on our health. Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for various chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. By removing this accessible fitness option, we risk exacerbating these issues and placing a greater burden on our employers and healthcare system.

The gym is more than just a place to work out; it is a space where people come together to achieve common goals, support each other, and build lasting relationships. Its closure would lead to the loss of a vital community space, which could negatively impact social cohesion and community morale.

We urge the management of the shopping mall to reconsider the decision to close the Babel gym. Retaining this facility is not only beneficial to the health and well-being of our community but also to the economic vitality of the mall and its surrounding businesses. We believe that there are alternative solutions that can be explored to address any concerns or challenges that may have led to this decision.

We, the undersigned, stand united in our commitment to preserving this invaluable community resource. We respectfully request that the gym be kept in its current location and continue to serve as a beacon of health, wellness, and community engagement, at least for the next year until the Twin Towers Fitness Centre is up and running again.