KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has seen an uptick in both stunting and obesity rates among children and adults.

In a written reply, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the prevalence of stunting among children under five has increased from 17.7 per cent in 2015 to 21.2 per cent in 2022.

Meanwhile, obesity among children under five has risen from four per cent in 2015 to 5.6 per cent in 2019 and 6.0 per cent in 2022.

For students aged 10 to 17, the prevalence of being overweight has also climbed from 14.6 per cent in 2012 to 15.6 per cent in 2017.

"In addition, the prevalence of obesity among these students has increased from 12.3 per cent in 2012 to 14.8 per cent in 2017.

"This data highlights that one in three school children faces issues with being overweight or obese.

"Furthermore, the prevalence of obesity among adults has risen from 19.7 per cent in 2019 to 21.8 per cent in 2023," he said in response to Datuk Dr Alias Razak (PN-Kuala Nerus).

Dr Alias was enquiring about the statistics of Malaysians experiencing stunting and obesity from 2013 to 2023 among children and adults.

He also inquired about the Health Ministry's readiness to review the effectiveness of programmes addressing stunting and obesity.

Dr Dzulkefly said that various factors influenced stunting and obesity issues and they are not limited to nutritional problems alone.

He said that among the ministry's continuous efforts is reviewing the implementation of strategies and programmes in accordance with its policies and direction.

This includes the Health White Paper, National Nutrition Policy 2.0, Reviewed Nutrition Policy Options to Combat Obesity in Malaysia, and National Strategic Plan for Non-Communicable Diseases 2016-2025.

He said among the programmes and activities reviewed to address stunting and obesity issues is strengthening the first 1,000 days of life initiative, which targets pregnant women and children aged two and covers health and nutrition care.

"Expanding the criteria for recipients in the children's malnutrition recovery programme or food basket programme starting June 2022.

"Empowering the Best Way of Life (C-HAT) main trainers from among Parent-Teacher Association members to help tackle obesity problems in schools," he said.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1078112/malaysia-sees-rise-childhood-stunting-and-obesity-rates