PUTRAJAYA: All government programmes, including meetings, will see a cut down on the usage of sugar by at least 50%, says Fahmi Fadzil.

The government spokesperson said the Cabinet has taken note of the alarming key findings of the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, which showed an increase in the number of Malaysians suffering from diabetes.

“The Cabinet has decided that starting from today, all programmes will reduce sugar usage by 50%.

“All beverages will be served without added sugar to reduce its consumption,” Fahmi told reporters at a press conference yesterday.

Fahmi, who is also Communications Minister, revealed the current rates of diabetes stood at 3.2% for Malaysians aged 18 to 29, 6.5% for those aged between 30 and 39, 15.2% for those aged between 40 and 49, 28.8% for those between 50 and 59 and 38% for those aged 60 and above.“This means that diabetes is a non-communicable disease that needs to be addressed comprehensively,” he said.

He also asked media personnel attending the press conference whether the drinks served were sweet.

“I have asked the 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, sporting a grin.

“This is the Cabinet’s decision to create a healthier environment,” he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/02/govt-embraces-bitter-truth-cuts-down-on-sugar