KUALA LUMPUR: Health advocates and consumer groups have welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call to reduce sugar in food and drinks served at hospitals, describing the move as long overdue amid rising rates of diabetes and obesity.
The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy chief executive Azrul Mohd Khalib said hospitals should not be environments that normalise unhealthy eating.
“Mini markets and sundry shops in hospitals often sell some of the unhealthiest food options, including sugar-laden snacks, which contradict the purpose of healthcare facilities,” he told the New Straits Times.
Azrul said hospitals and clinics should set the standard by offering low-sugar and low-salt food options as part of efforts to promote healthier lifestyles.
“Places meant for recovery and wellbeing must lead by example,” he added.
Anwar had earlier urged the Health Ministry to ensure food and beverages served in hospitals contained minimal sugar, and called for a sustained nationwide campaign to curb sugar consumption in response to growing public health concerns.
The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) also backed the move but said limiting action to hospitals alone would be insufficient.
CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said excessive sugar intake not only worsens health outcomes but also increases healthcare costs and reduces productivity.
“This effort should extend beyond hospitals to all institutions,” he said, calling for the removal of vending machines selling sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods.
Mohideen added that CAP has consistently urged the authorities to ban the use of high fructose corn syrup which is widely used as a cheap substitute for refined sugar despite its negative health impact.
“We have also called for an end to advertisements promoting high-sugar and other junk food and drinks, especially those targeting children and young consumers,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
