Malaysia’s Education Ministry Issues New School Food & Drink Guidelines

KUALA LUMPUR, 26 Sept 2025 – The Ministry of Education (Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia), in partnership with the Ministry of Health’s Nutrition Division, has released a new set of guidelines identifying 12 types of food and beverages recommended for school canteens nationwide.

The initiative aims to promote healthier eating habits among students and ensure that meals served on school grounds meet proper nutritional standards. According to the Ministry’s announcement on Instagram, the approved list highlights options that are balanced, nutrient-rich, and safe for daily consumption, reflecting Malaysia’s broader effort to address childhood obesity and diet-related illnesses.

Officials from both ministries emphasize that the guidelines were developed after careful review of children’s dietary needs and current public-health data. School canteen operators are encouraged to adopt the recommended items and reduce the availability of sugary drinks, high-fat snacks, and other less nutritious fare.

Education leaders believe that introducing these measures early can help instill lifelong healthy eating habits and complement broader national campaigns to improve food safety and nutrition.

For parents and educators, the move represents a positive step toward ensuring that every Malaysian child has access to safe, wholesome meals while at school.