Let’s be honest… weight management isn’t just about looks. It’s about energy, confidence, long-term health, and being able to live life fully. And in Malaysia, this conversation has never been more important.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, nearly 54.4% of Malaysian adults are living with overweight or obesity. And yup, I am among those who are overweight…
That’s more than half of us navigating busy schedules, food-filled celebrations, desk jobs, stress, and limited time for self-care. If this feels familiar, you’re not alone 💛
That’s why the recent announcement from Novo Nordisk has sparked nationwide interest.
Wegovy® Is Now Available in Malaysia…. Here’s Why People Are Talking About It
Novo Nordisk has officially announced the availability of Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4 mg) in Malaysia… a once-weekly injectable treatment designed to support adults living with obesity or overweight with weight-related health conditions.
This isn’t about quick fixes or crash diets. Wegovy® is introduced as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, helping people who’ve struggled despite doing “all the right things.”
Obesity: More Than Just Willpower
One of the biggest myths around weight is that it’s simply about discipline. In reality, obesity is a complex disease linked to over 200 potential health complications, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnoea
- High cholesterol
These conditions can affect not just life expectancy, but daily quality of life too.
As Professor Dr. Rohana Abdul Ghani, Consultant Endocrinologist and President of the Malaysian Obesity Society (MYOS), explains:
“Obesity is biological, behavioural, and environmental… not a personal failure. Misunderstanding this often leads to stigma and self-blame.”
That stigma can be just as heavy as the condition itself.
How Wegovy® Works (In Simple Terms)
Wegovy® contains semaglutide, which mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1… released by your gut after you eat.
What does that mean for everyday life?
- Helps regulate hunger
- Reduces cravings
- Supports feeling fuller for longer
Clinical studies have shown that Wegovy® can help people living with obesity achieve ≥20% weight loss, with a greater reduction in fat mass than lean body mass… often referred to as quality weight loss.
Who Is Wegovy® For?
Wegovy® is indicated for adults with:
- BMI ≥30 kg/m², or
- BMI ≥27 kg/m² with at least one weight-related condition such as prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnoea, or cardiovascular disease.
Always remember: treatment decisions should be made with a healthcare professional who understands your individual needs.
A Holistic Approach: Medication Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle
Experts agree…. successful weight management works best when it’s multidisciplinary.
Emeritus Professor Dr. Chan Siew Pheng, Honorary Consultant Endocrinologist, highlights the importance of teamwork:
“Obesity management involves doctors, nutritionists, physiotherapists, nurses, and mental health professionals. Weight regain can happen due to biological changes… so understanding the body is key.”
This means combining:
- Medical treatment
- Personalised nutrition
- Physical activity
- Mental and emotional support
No shame. No blame. Just support.
Why Heart Health Is Part of the Conversation
Cardiologist Dato’ Sri Dr. Azhari Rosman reminds us that obesity and heart health are closely linked:
“The connection between obesity and cardiovascular disease cannot be ignored. Effective obesity management improves overall health outcomes.”
Simply put, looking after your weight is also looking after your heart
Novo Nordisk’s Bigger Vision for Malaysia
According to Dr. Praful Chakkarwar, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Malaysia, this launch is about more than one medication:
“Wegovy® sits at the centre of a broader long-term strategy—local research, community education, partnerships, and platforms like Truth About Weight.”
The goal?
A future where Malaysians feel informed, supported, and empowered to take charge of their health.
Final Thoughts: Your Health Journey, Your Way
Weight management isn’t a straight line… and it’s definitely not one-size-fits-all. The arrival of Wegovy® in Malaysia represents progress, choice, and hope for many adults who’ve struggled silently.
If there’s one takeaway, it’s this:
Health is personal. Support matters. And no one should walk this journey alone.
Live Life Lah....... 