Made in Malaysia: Why We Should Support Our Homegrown Health Supplements and Products
As we celebrate upcoming Malaysia’s Independence Day (Merdeka) and Malaysia Day, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the ways we can support our nation.
One impactful way is by choosing to support homegrown Malaysian brands when it comes to health supplements and products. While international brands may have their appeal, there are compelling reasons to prioritize local options.
1. Tailored to Local Health Needs
Homegrown supplement brands are usually designed with Malaysian health needs and demands in mind. They are often attuned to the unique dietary and lifestyle challenges faced by Malaysians by factoring in the Asian lifestyle and environmental factors in mind, making them more suitable for local consumers.
Many Malaysian brands utilize traditional ingredients like tiger milk mushroom, pegaga and kacip fatimah, which have been used to address common regional health issues.
The Tiger Milk Mushroom is used a health tonic in local indigenous communities in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, South China, Phillippines and Papua New Guinea for over 400 years, with studies claiming it has healing properties in more than 15 types of medical ailments especially for respiratory health.
2. Fresher, Higher-Quality Ingredients and Local Packaging
Choosing Malaysian supplements often means benefiting from locally sourced ingredients, which can be fresher and of higher quality. When ingredients are sourced within Malaysia, they are harvested and processed close to home, preserving their potency and effectiveness.
While some ingredients may be imported, the local packaging process ensures that the final product is handled with care and meets stringent quality standards.
By supporting local packaging facilities, you contribute to the sustainability of the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping.
Product in picture: Myotein from VALENS®. Locally produced health supplements usually offer better freshness, quality, and accessibility while supporting local economies.
3. Supporting the Local Economy
Purchasing health products from Malaysian brands directly contributes to the local economy. This choice helps create jobs, foster innovation, and encourage the growth of local businesses.
Supporting homegrown brands stimulates the local supply chain, benefiting local suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers.
By buying local health products, you support the local workforce and contribute to the economic growth of Malaysia.
Product in picture: RefluxG+ from AiPharma. As local health products are usually designed with Malaysians in mind, making them culturally relevant and well-suited to our lifestyle and dietary needs.
4. Quality and Safety Assurance
Malaysian supplements are regulated by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), an agency under the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) responsible for registering pharmaceutical products, health supplements as well as cosmetic products that are marketed in Malaysia.
This means that local supplements undergo rigorous testing and quality control, making them just as reliable and effective as international brands. Local health companies also invest in advanced manufacturing practices and quality assurance to meet these high standards.
NPRA-certified products guarantee high-quality ingredients and manufacturing processes, proving that local supplements can match international standards
Product in picture: Lang Bragman. When choosing health supplements, always check for the MAL code on the packaging (in red bracket). This code, issued by NPRA, confirms that the product has been evaluated and meets NPRA’s safety and quality standards.
5. Greater Transparency and Trust
One key advantage of choosing local brands is the ease of communication. If you have any concerns or questions about a local supplement, it is typically simpler to liaise directly with the brand owner or manufacturer who are locally based here.
Local companies often provide accessible customer service channels and responsive support, making it easier to address any issues or seek clarification.
This direct line of communication ensures that you can confidently understand and trust the safety and effectiveness of the supplements you choose, knowing that any concerns can be promptly addressed.
Being locally established and regulated, consumers can easily resolve any concerns directly with the brands, ensuring prompt support and accountability
6. Building a Stronger, Healthier Community
Supporting local supplement brands contributes to a stronger and healthier community.
A successful local supplement brand with ample local supporters is more likely to implement or engage in community health initiatives or partner with local organizations to promote wellness.
By choosing local, you help foster a thriving community that benefits everyone, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
Photo credits to Eldon Healthcare. Malaysian healthcare brand Eldon Healthcare celebrates Malaysia’s rich heritage by collaborating with local gift shop Apprecious to launch a special edition handcrafted Batik pouch, paired with their tiger milk mushroom supplements. This partnership highlights products symbolic of Malaysia.
7. Just as Good as Imported Brands
There’s a common misconception that imported supplements are always superior. Malaysian health brands have demonstrated that they can match, and even surpass, the quality of international products.
Local supplements adhere to NPRA’s stringent regulations, ensuring that they meet high safety and quality standards. Look for locally registered health products to make sure they are high quality and safe for consumption.
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Choosing Malaysian supplements not only enhances your health but also supports the local economy, environment, and community. Local health brands offer products that are tailored to your needs, made with locally sourced ingredients, and produced with stringent quality standards.
As we commemorate our nation’s achievements, remember that choosing local is a powerful way to contribute to both your well-being and the growth of our country.