Syazwani Hj Rosli

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the Ministry of Health Dr Haji Zulaidi bin Haji Abdul Latif launched the Healthy Dining Programme at Roots BN and Rack & Brew Restaurants yesterday.

The event saw the presentation of certificate for both Roots and Rack & Brew by the deputy permanent secretary.

Head of the Health Promotion Centre Dr Hajah Norhayati binti Haji Mohd Kassim, senior officers and officers from the Ministry of Health, Health Promotion Centre and guests were also present.

The Healthy Dining Programme, implemented by the Health Promotion Centre of the Ministry of Health, aims to improve Brunei’s food environment by increasing the availability of a healthier food option.

Its implementation was due to concerns in the increase in food containing high calories, high fat, high sugar and high salt being sold in outlets in Brunei which may lead to an increase in obesity and non-communicable diseases in the country.

The Health Promotion Centre has been working closely with selected food outlets to encourage the provision of healthier food options in the market.

Participating food outlets have to comply with the guideline provided by the centre.

They are encouraged to provide customers with healthier food options in moderate portions, offer menu using healthier cooking methods, catering for less salt, less sugar or less oil requests and allow customers to choose healthier options from the menu list.

Food or drinks that are considered as healthier option will be labelled with a Healthier Choice Logo on the menu. Participating food outlets will also receive support and assistance from the Health Promotion Centre in producing a healthier option menu and become one of the Healthier Choice partners.

The programme aims to create a local market environment conducive for supporting healthier eating choices and foster the culture and practice of healthier food choices among restaurant owners, managers and customers.

It is hoped that more food outlets will participate in the Healthy Dining Programme and become important partners in supporting and promoting healthy eating initiatives in Brunei Darussalam.

This collaboration will support the Ministry of Health’s 2035 Vision ‘Together Towards a Healthy Nation’ and Vision 2035: High quality of Life.