Health before wealth for Asia's top-earners - survey

A woman practices yoga at a centre in Kuala Lumpur in this November 26, 2008 file photo.

SINGAPORE (Reuters Life!) - Rich Asians believe staying healthy is more important than being wealthy, with a regional survey showing the majority are also keen to spend more time with family and friends than at the office.

The survey of just over 4,000 people, commissioned by credit card firm Visa, said 91 percent of respondents made staying fit and healthy their top priority in the next two years. Nearly three-quarters said they exercised at least once a month.

Other priorities for over 80 percent of top-earners surveyed in the Asia Pacific region over the next couple of years were increasing their wealth, creating a better work-life balance and saving money.

"Even with the hectic pace of life, it is reassuring to know that most people have not neglected their health, the importance of work/life balance and the people around them," James Lim, Visa regional head of consumer credit and debit said in a statement.

The survey defined high-income earners as those from the top 20 to 40 percent of households for each of eight countries and islands canvassed and which included Australia, China and India.

It showed that the overwhelming majority, or 92 percent, of respondents said being with family was their favourite leisure activity, while spending time with friends was also important.

Other popular non-work activities include entertaining at home, participating in self-development courses and spending time at membership-only clubs.