Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) is facing challenges in ensuring the effectiveness of interventions to combat child malnutrition, including stunting and obesity, as many parents do not bring their children to clinics for routine check-ups.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni stated that the success of these interventions relies heavily on screening rates and the distribution of food basket aid. The issue is that fewer children are being screened, which complicates efforts to provide guidance to parents and distribute necessary food baskets.

Lukanisman noted that the MOH does not currently have a dedicated healthy food aid programme specifically for children aged three and under. However, he mentioned that the ministry is open to considering such a programme, depending on the need and availability of resources.

Presently, the MOH is implementing several initiatives, including the Community Feeding Programme, which provides healthy food assistance to Orang Asli children and those residing in People’s Housing Projects (PPR). Additionally, the Milk Assistance Programme targets children aged six months to six years from low-income families who are at risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Lukanisman emphasized that the MOH will continue to enhance existing programmes by strengthening collaboration with non-governmental organizations and expanding nutrition literacy programmes within communities to promote awareness of healthy eating habits.