The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) expresses its profound concern and strong opposition to the acceptance of donations from brewery and tobacco companies by schools.
Allowing such contributions sends a harmful message to our youth and undermines efforts to promote a healthy learning environment.
While some schools may be in desperate need of funding, the line should be clearly drawn on who they can accept donations from. Schools should be a place to inculcate healthy habits among our young.
The government must also ensure that both national and vernacular schools are well supported with sufficient funding. Investing in education and talent should be among the nation’s highest priorities.
It is saddening to hear that many schools are still under-funded, leaving them little choice but to seek donations from the private sector.
Health Risks And Long-Term Consequences
Research has consistently shown that both alcohol and tobacco consumption are significant contributors to numerous health issues. Tobacco use is responsible for approximately seven million deaths annually, while alcohol use accounts for around 3.3 million deaths each year.
These substances are directly linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses, which pose a long-term burden on our health care system and society.
Negative Influence On Youth
The influence of alcohol and tobacco on young minds cannot be underestimated. By accepting donations from these industries, schools risk normalizing substance use among students, undermining efforts to cultivate good habits and healthy lifestyles from an early age.
Education should empower students, not expose them to behaviours that can lead to addiction and related health issues later in life.
International Policies And Best Practices
Countries worldwide have recognised the detrimental impact of allowing alcohol and tobacco companies to influence educational environments.
For instance, the United States and several European countries have strict regulations prohibiting such donations to schools.
These policies are designed to protect young people from exposure to harmful substances and to promote a culture of health and wellbeing.
Societal And Economic Impact
Substance use among youth not only affects their health, but also has broader social and economic implications. It can lead to decreased academic performance, higher dropout rates, and long-term unproductivity.
This, in turn, places a burden on families, the healthcare system, and society as a whole. Preventing substance use from an early age is crucial to reducing these negative outcomes and fostering a healthier, more productive population.
The MMA urges all educational institutions to adhere strictly to any existing guidelines that prohibit funding from tobacco and alcohol companies.
We call upon policymakers, school leaders, and the community to uphold these critical standards that protect our educational environments from the influence of harmful industries.
Schools should be places that promote wellness and foster productive members of society, rather than arenas where unhealthy habits can take root.
In conclusion, the MMA stands firm in advocating against donations from brewery and tobacco companies to schools. We believe that good habits should be cultivated from a young age, and our educational policies must reflect our commitment to nurturing a healthy and informed generation.
Together, we must ensure that our schools remain safe havens for learning and growth, free from the influence of industries that pose significant health risks.
Dr Azizan Abdul Aziz is president of the Malaysian Medical Association.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of CodeBlue.
