Malaysian Sugar Consumption Exceeds WHO Recommended Intake

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- Sugar consumption among Malaysians is at a high rate, with the average of 51 grammes daily a cause for concern.
Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Deputy Minister (MDTCC) Datuk Tan Lian Hoe said this exceeded the 50gm daily limit set by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
"This means Malaysians are at risk for serious health problems such as diabetes, whereby poor health will stunt the national transformation programmes implemented for the country to achieve developed and high-income nation status," she said in her speech when launching the Dutch Lady Malaysia's 'Reduce Sugar' campaign, here, today.
Her speech text was read out by the ministry's deputy secretary-general Mahani Tan Abdullah.
Tan said that physically and mentally fit human capital was critical for a nation's development.
"What's more worrying is increasing obesity and diabetes among youths who are the future leaders of the country," she said.
Therefore, Tan said, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin's earlier statement that Malaysia ranked fourth in the Asean region for obesity and sixth among Asia Pacific countries should not be taken lightly.
"The reduce sugar consumption campaign carried out by MDTCC and the Health Ministry since 2009 will be continued for years to come," she said.
Tan hoped that more companies in Malaysia, especially food manufacturers, would emulate Dutch Lady Malaysia's effort in supporting government efforts to reduce sugar intake and improve the health of Malaysians.