Materia Medica Malaysiana

A brand new way to promote health

Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek called on companies yesterday to promote their brand name as a whole rather than individual products under their stable.
“There should not be support for just one particular drink or food to promote a healthy lifestyle. Companies should stand out as a brand for health products,” said Chua at the Chinese New Year celebration with Nestle Sdn Bhd at the National Press Club in Jalan Tangsi here last night.
Also present were NPC president Ahirudin Attan and Nestle’s managing director Sullivan O’Carroll. Guests were treated to yee sang and dinner.
Chua said the ‘branding approach’ is being practised in neighbouring countries.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Press in his speech.
“The Press has helped create greater awareness during outbreak of diseases and educated people on health problems,” he said.
Chua said 800,000 Malaysians are suffering from diabetes and three million from hypertension.
He urged Malaysians to lead a healthier lifestyle as 20 per cent of the population are overweight while 15 per cent suffer from mental problems.