Mum’s milk cuts death rate

Simply the breast: Mothers feeding their babies in an awareness event in this file picture.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has managed to reduce the mortality rate for children under the age of five by 85% over the past 30 years, thanks to initiatives taken by the Government to promote breastfeeding.

Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) paediatrics and neonatology consultant Dr Farah Inaz Syed Abdullah said this was the best way to reduce the risk of infant mortality because breast milk provided nutrients and long-lasting active immunity that helped maintain the health of a child until adulthood.