He said salt was identified as a major contributing factor to the prevalence of numerous chronic diseases, leading to premature deaths in the country.

“It’s a good investment, RM1 spent (against salt intake) is estimated to lead to approximately RM60 (of savings) to the health system,” he said. The campaign is still in the planning stage, he told reporters.

Dzulkefly said the initiative would be a continuation to the ministry’s previous campaigns against sugar and tobacco to promote a healthier society.

According to a World Health Organization global report in 2023, an estimated 1.89 million diet-related deaths each year are associated with excessive sodium intake.