According to reports this week, Malaysia’s Health Minister Chua Soi Lek is considering a ban of fast food ads to tackle the country’s growing obesity problem. Vincent Lee, president of the Malaysian 4As, is to meet with Chua next week.
“Advertisers have little to fear at this stage,” said Lee. “I spoke to the Minister yesterday, and we will meet next week to discuss ways to manage the issue and look at regulations already in action in the US and Europe. Self-regulation is the best way to go.”
The proposed ban comes at a time when the government is reportedly thinking of introducing a "sin tax" on fast food, which already exists for alcohol and cigarettes.
Forty per cent of Malaysia’s adult population are considered obese – a 20 per cent rise in 10 years – the highest obesity rate in Southeast Asia.
