Government events to slash sugar content in beverages by 50%

PUTRAJAYA: The cabinet has mandated a 50 percent reduction in sugar content for drinks served at government events starting today.

Unity government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil announced that this initiative aims to promote healthier lifestyle choices. 

The decision follows the 2023 National Morbidity Survey, which highlighted a rise in diabetes among Malaysians, affecting approximately 15.5 percent of the population.

“This indicates that diabetes, a major non-communicable disease, is a critical issue that requires a thorough response,” Fahmi stated. 

“To address this, the cabinet has decided that from today, all beverages at government events, including meetings, will have their sugar content reduced by 50 percent, and no added sugar will be used.”

Previously, on April 24, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni reported that nearly five million Malaysians are at risk of pre-diabetes or diabetes. He noted that diabetes often has no symptoms, causing many individuals to remain unaware of their condition and potentially miss early screening opportunities.