The Nutrition Division of Malaysia’s Health Ministry has called for the government to expand the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) cash aid program to allow recipients to purchase fruits and vegetables, aiming to make healthy eating more accessible for low-income households. This recommendation follows a survey revealing that the ministry’s “Suku Suku Separuh” (SSS) healthy plate model, which promotes balanced meals, remains financially out of reach for many Malaysians, with costs ranging from RM8.53 in Kedah to RM16.27 in Kuala Lumpur.
The division emphasized that affordability challenges can be addressed by opting for cost-effective alternatives with comparable nutritional value, such as substituting beef with chicken or eggs, or choosing plant-based options like tempeh and dhal. It also advocated for home cooking as a practical solution to reduce expenses while improving dietary health. “Preparing meals at home enables families to purchase raw ingredients in bulk, select seasonal produce, and use healthier cooking methods, minimizing reliance on excessive salt, sugar, and oil,” the division stated. “This approach not only lowers food costs compared to dining out but also allows households to tailor meals to their nutritional needs.”
While public education on healthier food choices is valuable, the division stressed that it is insufficient without policies to make nutritious food more affordable. “National aid programs like SARA should be expanded to include fruits and vegetables, with targeted and consistent support for low-income households,” it urged.
The division also acknowledged the benefits of the business-driven Menu Rahmah initiative, which offers affordable meals but noted its limitations due to its voluntary nature. “Eateries may not prioritize nutritional value, which underscores the need for broader policy interventions,” it added.
The SSS model, which recommends a plate consisting of one-quarter protein, one-quarter carbohydrates, and half fruits and vegetables, remains a cornerstone of the ministry’s nutritional guidance. However, the division warned that without addressing affordability, “the SSS concept risks becoming a privilege for the few.” It highlighted the urgency of tackling this issue amid Malaysia’s rising rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and escalating living costs, advocating for nutrition policies that prioritize affordability and access alongside education and awareness.
A study by the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy and Universiti Teknologi Mara confirmed that the SSS model is unaffordable for most Malaysians. The Galen Centre proposed several solutions, including strengthening subsidies and incentives for healthy foods, establishing a centralized data platform for nutritional research, and engaging food industry stakeholders. It also urged the Health Ministry to publish a list of affordable, nutritious food options to help Malaysians make healthier choices within their budgets.
