In conjunction with International Women’s Day and World Obesity Day, three organizations have come together to highlight how women are pushing back against societal norms and personal struggles in their fight against obesity. As women navigate stigma, healthcare hurdles, and self-doubt, the path to change is possible, if challenging.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
On 26 February 2025, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Malaysia), the Malaysian Obesity Society (MYOS), and the Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society (MEMS) joined forces to host “Bold and Unbound: Leading the Charge in Reshaping Societal Perceptions of Obesity.”
The event brought together healthcare professionals, advocates, and people living with obesity to tackle stigma and promote inclusive health solutions.
WHY WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP MATTERS
- Women are key decision-makers in healthcare not just in their own lives but also in their families.
- Globally, women make up 70% of healthcare workers, underscoring their critical role in shaping health narratives.
OBESITY IS A DISEASE, NOT A PERSONAL FAILING
The highlight of the event was a panel discussion that highlighted Malaysia’s obesity crisis, particularly among women. The panel featured:
- Dr Raja Nurazni Raja Azwan, endocrinologist
- Aida Tahir, obesity advocate
- Dr Noraryana Hassan, the Deputy Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia
- Dr Nurain Mohd Noor, Head of the Endocrinology Subspecialty Service of the Malaysian Ministry of Health Malaysia and President of the Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society (MEMS)
- Professor Dr Rohana Abdul Ghani, President of the Malaysian Obesity Society (MYOS) and senior consultant endocrinologist
Dr Noraryana Hassan stressed that the tackling of the stigma of obesity requires integrated strategies, collaboration with advocacy groups, and better public awareness.
Professor Dr Rohana Abdul Ghani called for an interdisciplinary approach: “Obesity is a complex health condition that demands a comprehensive and compassionate response.”
Dr Nurain Mohd Noor echoed the call for action. She said: We need a holistic approach that empowers individuals and communities. Collaboration between medical professionals, policymakers, and advocacy groups is key to breaking obesity stigma.”
Aida Tahir, a woman living with obesity, shared her story. “Since my adolescence, losing weight has been a struggle. But more importantly, I am happier now that I have gained my health. And nothing is more precious than health itself,” she told the audience.
Her story highlighted the real-world impact of obesity stigma and the need for empathy in healthcare and society.
| To understand why obesity being classified as a disease is actually a good thing, check out consultant endocrinologist Professor Dr Norlaila Mustafa’s article on this issue. |
| This article is part of our series on health-related campaigns and milestone events of note in Malaysia. |
