Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calls for reduced sugar consumption to ease the public health burden and improve national healthcare outcomes.
BUTTERWORTH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to reduce their sugar intake.
He stated that unhealthy eating habits, particularly high sugar consumption, are a major contributor to the rising public health burden.
This places added pressure on the national healthcare system.
“Sugar consumption in Malaysia is among the highest in Asia,” he said in a speech at Seberang Jaya Hospital today.
“Although the government spends a lot on healthcare, we need to encourage healthy eating to prevent people from getting various illnesses.”
Anwar said awareness campaigns on reducing sugar should be intensified.
He suggested offering healthier food and drink options in hospitals and government premises.
The Prime Minister also proposed limiting sugary drinks in all hospitals.
He added that official government functions should serve food and beverages with minimal sugar to educate the public.
Furthermore, he said hospitals and clinics should display posters and clear health messages.
This would raise awareness about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption.
On the new hospital block, Anwar said it strengthens healthcare capacity in Seberang Perai.
The addition reflects the government’s commitment to more effective and accessible public treatment.
