IPOH: A proposal to prohibit sugary drinks in all government departments and agencies in Perak will be presented at the upcoming State Executive Council meeting, according to a state executive councillor. State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman A. Sivanesan stated that this initiative is part of the broader “War on Sugar” campaign, aimed at increasing public awareness of diabetes and serving as a preventive health measure.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sivanesan has engaged in discussions with Teluk Intan Hospital regarding the initiative. If the proposal is accepted, Teluk Intan Hospital will be declared a ‘Zero Sugar Hospital’ starting January 1, 2025. This designation would prevent any sugary drinks from being brought into the hospital by patients or visitors. Sivanesan emphasized that such a move would position Perak as the first Malaysian state to implement proactive measures against diabetes, a condition that often leads to hypertension an
d cardiovascular diseases.

Sivanesan revealed that the proposal has been communicated to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. He underscored the importance of the Perak State Health Department setting an example for other agencies, with ambitions to see participation from 189 clinics, 221 village clinics, 18 mobile clinics, and 15 hospitals throughout Perak.

While the focus is on government entities, Sivanesan expressed his intent to engage with private hospitals about their canteen offerings, advocating for them to adopt similar measures. The aim is to foster educational efforts about the risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, particularly among children.

The “War on Sugar” was highlighted during the Budget 2025 presentation by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who announced phased increases in excise duties on sugary drinks starting January 1 of the coming year.