Putrajaya is increasing efforts to reduce cancer risks and improve public health through the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS), launched in August 2021 by the Ministry of Health (MOH). This national health initiative aims to combat the growing rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), obesity, diabetes, and mental health issues among Malaysians.
By encouraging young couples to prioritise healthy eating, physical activity, stress management, and environmental awareness, ANMS aims to reduce cancer risks while improving the long-term health of future generations. A proactive approach today could lay the groundwork for healthier children in the future.
The government’s efforts include a variety of campaigns targeting lifestyle changes that directly influence cancer prevention. Among these are initiatives like the “Wellness on Wheels” (WoW), the “War on Sugar” campaign, and “Suku-Suku Separuh” (Quarter-Quarter-Half Plate), which promotes balanced eating. The “1000 Days of Life” initiative focuses on maternal and child health, ensuring proper nutrition from pregnancy through early childhood.
In November 2024, Malaysian Members of Parliament (MPs) further supported the initiative with the Sugar-Free Drink Day, an effort aligned with the War on Sugar campaign. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul announced that every Wednesday would be designated as a sugar-free drink day, and MPs would enjoy a 20-sen discount on sugar-free drink purchases through the “Jom Kosong” campaign by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living.
ANMS is particularly vital given Malaysia’s high rates of chronic conditions: 18.3% of adults suffer from diabetes, over half of adults are overweight or obese (50.1%), and 30% of adults have hypertension. By addressing these risk factors, the initiative aims to ease the burden on the healthcare system and build a healthier, cancer-resilient population.
Through ANMS, Malaysia is targeting modifiable risk factors associated with cancer. These include promoting healthier eating habits to reduce obesity-related cancers, encouraging regular physical activity, and curbing tobacco and alcohol use to prevent cancers such as lung, liver, and throat cancer. Additionally, ANMS stresses the importance of early detection, screenings, and mental well-being to reduce stress-related cancer risks.
By addressing lifestyle factors and increasing awareness, the ANMS initiative is helping to reduce cancer risks and build a healthier future for Malaysians, ensuring that the next generation benefits from improved well-being.
