A coalition of Malay non-governmental organisations yesterday voiced dissatisfaction with the Health Ministry's decision to restrict the sale of nasi lemak in school canteens.
Representing the 15-member coalition, Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia adviser Tunku Azwil Tunku Abdul Razak said the ministry based the restriction on unsound facts.
"Not all people who eat nasi lemak are obese. There is no proof that says nasi lemak is the cause of child obesity."
Tunku Azwil urged the ministry to conduct more research and prove the restriction was warranted before carrying it out.
"Without a proper explanation, Malays will believe the move is made to fulfil a hidden agenda.
"The ones who suffer most are canteen operators, who sell nasi lemak to earn a living."
He said most students could not afford to buy other food items.
"Schoolchildren will not only be deprived of a traditional food but also nutrition."
Tunku Azwil added that the carbohydrates in nasi lemak gave students energy.
