PUTRAJAYA – Unhealthy eating practices and lack of physical activities are among the main components leading to obesity, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad.
He said any allegations of 24-hour restaurants being the main cause of obesity here must be empirically proven through objective and comprehensive studies.
“Prohibiting eateries to operate for 24 hours (demand-side restriction) will not guarantee that consumers will not look for alternatives,” he told the media when met after an Aidilfitri event organised by the National Unity Ministry here today.
He said this when asked to comment on the Consumers’ Association of Penang’s (CAP) proposal calling for restaurants to be banned from operating 24 hours a day. They said this is to help reduce health and obesity problems.
Dzulkefly said each individual is responsible for their own eating habits and lifestyle.
“Any change in individual behaviour requires a high level of awareness and health literacy.
“However, in Malaysia, one of every three individuals has low level of health literacy,” he said.
Dzulkefly said CAP’s proposal to prohibit eateries from operating for 24 hours will be refined. This includes holding an engagement session with all stakeholders so that the issue can be resolved comprehensively and the recommended solution will have clear direction and outcome.
“The proposal paper will be prepared for the Health Ministry and government’s scrutiny and further action,” he said.
He also explained that there is an urgent need for groups such as front-line workers comprising police, firefighters, doctors, nurses, and security personnel which depend on the services of 24-hour restaurants.
“By stopping services in bulk (supply-side restriction), it will cause difficulties for them,” he added. – April 24, 2024