Malaysia’s dietary supplement industry is becoming increasingly sophisticated as consumers grow more health-conscious and proactive about their well-being.
This is fueled by heightened consumer awareness about the benefits of better nutrition and the limitations of processed foods.
The shift is not just about personal health but also the economy, as industry stakeholders urge stronger collaboration between regulators, consumers, and the government to ensure sustainable growth and retain local spending.
According to Malaysian Dietary Supplement Association (MADSA) president, Datuk Dr M Rajendran, global trends are reshaping consumer behavior and the dietary supplement industry.
"The global trend now is that people are becoming more health-conscious. They are increasingly aware of what they can do to improve their health and are taking proactive steps to address it.
"More consumers are purchasing supplements to take control of their health. As a result, I foresee the industry becoming more sophisticated," he said during an interview with Sinar Daily recently.
Dr Rajendran pointed out that consumers are turning away from low-quality processed foods and moving toward healthier alternatives.
He drew parallels to the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement in the United States, predicting that a similar movement could gain traction in Malaysia.
Dr Rajendran also highlighted how this shift would likely influence regulators to adopt more liberal policies to accommodate the growing demand for supplements.
"Globally, there’s a movement toward supplementation, and I believe the same will happen here. We’re also seeing more sales shifting online, reflecting consumer trends worldwide," he added.
Dr Rajendran also emphasised the need for dialogue among all stakeholders, including regulators, consumers, and the government. He stated that if the nation can encourage greater communication and collaboration, the industry will continue to evolve, ultimately improving the overall health of Malaysians.
Malaysian Dietary Supplement Association (MADSA) member, Jonathan Chew, shared similar insights while highlighting the economic implications of the growing wellness trend.
"You might be surprised to learn that Malaysians spend quite a bit on supplements.
"Without government intervention, this spending will continue to rise, potentially benefiting international brands more than local ones. This could result in a significant outflow of Ringgit from the country," he said.
Chew called for proactive measures to ensure that Malaysian consumers have access to high-quality supplements while supporting local industries.
"As consumers become more educated, the industry will naturally evolve to provide better quality products.
"However, this also requires consistent pressure on the government to take actions that truly benefit the public," he said.
To counter this, he said the industry must ensure local products meet the rising demand for high-quality supplements, supported by policies that strengthen the local market.
Chew also stressed the need to bridge the gap between regulators and consumers, ensuring that the industry evolves in a way that protects consumer interests and supports long-term growth.
"There’s still a significant gap, which is why MADSA was established. We’re committed to narrowing this divide by advocating for consumer rights and pushing for government action.
"Our goal is to uplift consumers while encouraging the government to take more proactive steps," Chew added.
Both industry leaders agree that the dietary supplement industry is poised for growth, driven by more informed and proactive consumers.
However, they pointed out the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to create a more sophisticated and consumer-friendly market.
By fostering communication, improving regulations, and supporting local businesses, Malaysia can ensure that this burgeoning industry contributes to the health and well-being of its people while staying competitive on the global stage.