Brunei Darussalam currently records the highest obesity rate in the ASEAN region at 32 point 4 per cent. Two out of three adults are overweight, and one out three is obese. This research finding shows that the country's citizens are still exposed to unhealthy eating patterns, less physical activities, and other lifestyle-related risk factors.
In a message in conjunction with World Obesity Day, the Minister of Health explained that obesity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, stroke, and several types of cancer, which remain as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. Aside from its impact on health, obesity also places significant strain on healthcare resources and an individual's quality of life.
Recognising the complexity of the obesity issue, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar said the Ministry of Health has strengthened its system-based approach through the establishment of the Obesity Steering Committee under the Ministry of Health in 2024. It serves as a platform to coordinate policies, program implementations, and ensure the involvement of stakeholders from various sectors. At the same time, the Ministry of Health is also working closely with the World Health Organization, WHO to develop a comprehensive strategy for obesity prevention and management.
Early this year, the Ministry of Health in partnership with WHO have implemented the Training of Trainers on the Obesity Chronic Care Program, the first of its kind at the global level. The program focused on integration of obesity care in the primary healthcare service. WHO also selected the Ministry of Health of Brunei Darussalam as the pioneering country for the implementation of this jointly developed training workshop. The ministry also took several initiatives for obesity prevention and management.
This year's theme is '8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity,' emphasising global challenges that are influenced by various systems such as environment, socio-economy, access to health, and requires holistic approach involving the government and the communities.
