IPOH, Dec 2 (Bernama) -- A proposal to prohibit sugary drinks in all government departments and agencies in Perak will be presented at the upcoming State Executive Council meeting, according to a state executive councillor.
State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman A. Sivanesan said the move is part of efforts to support the "War on Sugar" initiative as a preventive measure and to raise public awareness about diabetes.
“I have also discussed this with Teluk Intan Hospital, and if successful, starting from Jan 1, 2025, Teluk Intan Hospital will be declared a ‘Zero Sugar Hospital,’ where no one from outside, whether patients or visitors, will be allowed to bring sugary drinks into the hospital premises.
“If we can implement this, Perak will become the first state in Malaysia to take proactive action against diabetes, which often leads to hypertension and subsequently cardiovascular diseases. Diabetes is the root cause,” he said at a press conference here today.
He said the proposal has already been conveyed to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
According to Sivanesan, the Perak State Health Department must serve as a role model for other agencies, with the hope that 189 clinics, 221 village clinics, 18 mobile clinics and 15 hospitals in Perak will actively promote this campaign.
“We cannot force private institutions to follow suit, but I will also hold meetings with private hospitals regarding their canteens. They too should adopt what we are implementing, so we can educate our children about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption,” he said.
During the Budget 2025 presentation, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the "War on Sugar" by introducing phased increases in excise duties on sugary drinks starting Jan 1 next year.
-- BERNAMA
