PETALING JAYA: While the Jom Kosong or zero-sugar campaign will help improve the health of Malaysians, restaurant groups say the move to pay less to exclude sugar from drinks would also allow them to save on costs.
The initiative was launched by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry on Sept 11 following the War on Sugar campaign led by the Health Ministry to encourage the public to reduce their sugar intake.
Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association (Primas) president J. Govindasamy said the campaign should be encouraged and supported by all.
“We will give it our full backing. I believe it would not burden us as we will be saving on the cost of sugar. We will impose a lower charge for those who order drinks without sugar,” he said when contacted.
Govindasamy added that restaurant workers would not face any difficulties in serving the preferred options of their patrons.
“Even now, they have been serving the drinks according to the wishes of customers.
“If there is a request for less sugar or no sugar, we will fulfil their request. The staff would continue to do what they have been doing.”
Petty Traders and Hawkers Association president Datuk Rosli Sulaiman said the move would drive more Malaysians to opt for healthier options, while saving money. He added that a 20 sen reduction would not hurt the operating costs of eateries as the amount is still small.
“It would not be much of a hassle for operators to implement the price cut and it will not affect us much.
“However, I strongly suggest that the ministry instruct eateries to indicate the discount in their price list so that consumers are aware of their choice,” said Rosli.
Pertubuhan Sahabat Tomyam Prihatin SeMalaysia adviser Che Mamad Che Mod said that even with the discount, it would not affect eateries’ income.
“In fact, the price of our drinks in restaurants is relatively cheaper than at other premises.
“We fully support this campaign,” he said.
On Sept 11, Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh said patrons would have the choice of paying less to exclude sugar from drinks at eateries. She said the campaign would also see many food and retail businesses slowly implement the choice of sugarless drinks at cheaper prices for their customers.
Beginning Oct 1, all products containing sugar would also be immediately removed from the list of discounted items under the ministry’s Jualan Rahmah Madani programme.
