He said it was important as Malaysia now has the highest rate of diabetes cases in Southeast Asia and it showed that the level of health literacy among the people in the country remains low.

“Obesity, excessive weight and diabetes rates are all high.

“So please, save the country, save the children, save our families and our parents by controlling sugar intake, (but) not stopping it completely.

“How do we reduce obesity? By cutting down on carbohydrates and getting more exercise. But don’t jog only during the health campaigns.

“We need to maintain our health. We’re busy, but that’s no excuse because we still sleep and eat. So, we should also make time to exercise,” he said when launching the 2024 National Wellness Month celebration here today.

Also present were health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad and Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Aminuddin Harun.

Anwar said sugar reduction campaigns, as well as health literacy policies, would only be effective if people begin changing their eating habits now.

He said the public should not harm themselves by consuming excessive sugar without considering the impact it has on their health.

At the same time, Anwar urged business owners to play an active role in encouraging the public to reduce sugar intake by being mindful of their customers’ health when preparing food and beverages.

He added that commitment and dedication from healthcare workers are also needed. Health facilities like hospitals and clinics must set a good example by promoting healthy eating and exercise habits.

School canteens should sell healthy food to ensure students’ well-being, while the use of sugar in the food and drink menus at government functions should be reduced, he said.