Petaling Jaya, 20th January 2025 - The move by Royal Malaysia Police to address obesity among its personnel is “progressive” and other agencies and professions should follow suit, say healthcare professionals.
Public healthcare expert, Professor Dr. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia said, the stressful work of those in the police force means it is crucial for them to look after
their health.
She said being overweight may lead to non-communicable diseases, so it is a wise move by the police to encourage weight loss programmes.
On Thursday, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tan Sri Razarudin Husain made it clear that a body mass index (BMI) of less than 28 is among the criteria for promotion among his personnel.
Professor Dr. Sharifa Ezat, when contacted said, the initiative by the police should be commended.
“We want our men in blue to be fit,” she said.
Professor Dr. Sharifa warned that being obese could lead a person to being susceptible to disease such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, gout, hypertension and also cancer.
"Malaysia has the highest rate of obesity in South-East Asia.
"Every effort should be taken to control this 'epidemic' which can cause a myriad of health problems", she said.
Read futher on The Star’s article attached.
