PUTRAJAYA: There will be a 50% reduction in the sugar used for all government programmes, says Fahmi Fadzil.

The government spokesperson said that the Cabinet is aware of the key findings of the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, which show an increase in number of Malaysians suffering from diabetes.

"So one of the government's initiatives starting from today onwards is that the Cabinet has decided that all programmes moving forward will reduce the amount of sugar used by 50%. All of the beverages will be served without added sugar.

"So, we will be reducing sugar consumption," he told a press conference on Thursday (Aug 1).

He said the prevalent rates of diabetes stood at 3.2% for Malaysians aged 18 to 29 years old and at 6.5% for those aged between 30 and 39 years old.

Fahmi also said that it stands at 15.2% for those aged between 40 and 49 years old, 28.8% for those between the age of 50 to 59 years old and 38% for those aged 60 and above.

"This means that diabetes is a non-communicable disease that needs to be addressed comprehensively," he noted.

He also asked media personnel attending the press conference, whether the drinks served had tasted sweet.

"So, I have asked officers here to ensure that if there are drinks (served) here, they won't be too sweet. Sweetness is good, but let's keep it in our smiles, not our drinks," he said.

"Starting next week, let the sweetness be in our smiles, not in our drinks. This is the Cabinet's decision to create a healthier environment.We will ensure that all food and drinks will not taste as sweet as before," added Fahmi.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/01/sugar-usage-at-govt-programmes-to-be-halved-says-fahmi