KUANTAN – The Education Ministry (MoE) is committed to promoting nutritious and balanced eating habits among five million students in 10,232 schools nationwide to build a healthy society in line with the Madani government’s goals.
Educational Resources and Technology Division director Zainal Abas said the ministry views healthy eating habits seriously, following the food pyramid guidelines set by the Health Ministry (MoH) because it is a crucial element in a student’s growth.
Students in their school years are in a crucial growth phase, thus they need a balanced diet to obtain necessary nutrients for their immune system and physical development.
“MoH has previously released data such as obesity rates and stunted growth in students, which are closely related to diet. We want students, teachers and parents to be aware that nutrition is based on energy needs and the correct food groups.
“For this reason, MoE launched the Healthy Eating Campaign as another programme that supports healthy lifestyle practices, and we will intensify these efforts nationwide,” he said when launching the national-level campaign at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bukit Rangin today.
He said that MoE has also planned various programmes such as sports and outdoor classroom activities throughout the year, which will involve parents, considering that students spend more time with their families than at school.
“We know that nutrition alone is not sufficient, and therefore, the ministry has planned programmes to keep students active.
“Practising a healthy lifestyle from an early age can prevent them from developing high blood pressure, diabetes, or NCDs (non-communicable diseases), thereby creating a productive and prosperous society,” he added. – June 14, 2024