Free Water For Healthier Choices

Should water be free at restaurants?

With many Malaysians consuming more sugar than recommended, making plain drinking water free at restaurants could be a step towards encouraging healthier choices.

In a recent interview, our researcher, Teoh Ai Ni argues that free drinking water can make the healthier option more available and affordable, giving people an alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages. Legislating this measure would be more effective than voluntary compliance, as it can ensure more consistent implementation across food outlets. However, free water alone is not enough. It should be supported by public education, incentives for healthier choices, and policies that encourage better eating habits.

Catch the full discussion on Astro AWANI YouTube channel.