The Industry and Stakeholder Engagement Session for Salt Reduction was held in the Ministry of Health, Putrajaya, on the 12th of May 2022. The event was launched by the Honourable Dato’ Dr Haji Noor Azmi bin Ghazali, the 1st Deputy Minister of Health.

An introductory speech was given by Dr Rabindra Romauld Abeyasinghe, Head of Mission and WHO Representative to Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore. This was followed by the keynote speech on the National Salt Reduction Strategy Plan for 2021-2025 by Dr Hamdan bin Mohamad, Dietetic Officer from the Disease Control Division of the Ministry.

Results from three Malaysian studies were presented by their respective investigators. The first study was a Survey of Salt Levels in Street Foods in Malaysia, shared by A/Professor Dr. Hasnah Bt Haron from the National University of Malaysia. The next two studies were on Barriers, Enablers & Perception on Salt Reduction, on two separate groups (Out of Home Sectors and School Canteen Operators). The studies were shared by Professor Dr Suzana bt Shahar of the National University of Malaysia, and Professor Dr Hazreen bin Abdul Majid of the University of Malaya.

Then came Professor Dr Sibrandes Poppema, President of Sunway University and Honorary Advisor for MyWASSH, to introduce our society as well as reiterate the University’s support for the goals of the Ministry. A brief recorded speech was also given by Datin Professor Dr Chia Yook Chin, founder president of MyWASSH to explain the society’s work and affiliations with other international groups.

The industry representatives were also present to engage with stakeholders to kick start reformulation efforts. Thank you KEMENTERIAN KESIHATAN MALAYSIA for the opportunity to introduce us. Thank you Sunway University for the leadership and support!

Click here to download the document of Salt Reduction Strategy to Prevent and Control Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) for Malaysia 2021-2025

Click the link below to watch the messages from:

• Professor Graham MacGregor, the chairman of World Action on Salt, Sugar and Health (WASSH)
• Datin Professor Dr Chia Yook Chin, the president of The Malaysian Society for World Action on Salt, Sugar and Health (MyWASSH)