A total of 76%, or 988,000 out of 1.3 million residents in Terengganu, are overweight or obese.
The Director of the Terengganu State Health Department (JKNT), Datuk Dr Kasemani Embong, said this figure represents a 15.2% increase compared to 60.8% in 2011.
She added that what is more concerning is that one in three teenagers in the state has been found to suffer from weight issues due to unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle choices.
“This situation is worrying for health authorities because it can further increase the risk and prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, and hypertension, which are already high,” she said.
“Among teenagers, today’s lifestyle—constantly glued to gadgets and having access to various unhealthy food options—has led to more of them experiencing weight problems.”
In response, Dr Kasemani said JKNT is intensifying awareness programmes, including the ‘War On Sugar’ Campaign, to remind the public about the dangers of hidden sugars in food and soft drinks.
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She emphasised that drinking plain water and preparing healthy meals at home are among the steps that can be taken to avoid excessive sugar intake.
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