Table 5 Government agencies that have major possible roles in operationalizing the salt reduction strategies

Ministry of Education/higher education

• Incorporating salt education components in schools’ healthy eating curriculum

• Facilitating the implementation of salt reduction initiatives/programme in schools or higher learning institutions

• Creating a health-promoting environment (e.g. healthy cafeteria or canteen, school meal programme)

Ministry of Communication and Multimedia

• Facilitating promotion of salt reduction programme and low salt foods via electronic media, that is, television, radio and social media, and printed media, that is, newspapers, for wider coverage

Ministry of International Trade and Industry

• Facilitating the development of product reformulation among the small and medium food industries

• Assisting and promoting the exportation of local products with low or reduced sodium content

• Accelerate the use of digital technology and salt-related innovation, such as reformulation

• Financial support for marketing of low salt food products globally

Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives & Consumerism

• Promotion of healthier or low/reduced salt foods/beverages as an affordable alternative for Malaysians

• Facilitate the implementation of fiscal measures (i.e. subsidy plan) and regulations related to unhealthy foods/beverages

• Financial support in subsidizing healthier food products

Ministry of Agriculture and agro-based industry

• Promote the eating of fruits and vegetables to increase potassium intake and reduce salt intake

• Increase the availability of fresh vegetables and fruits to Malaysians at affordable prices to increase consumption

• Accelerate the use of digital technology and salt-related innovation, such as reformulation

• Financial support for reformulation and marketing of low salt food products

Attorney General’s Office

• Approval of proposed legislation or amendment on Food Act