Malaysian parents are being encouraged to take early action against Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA), as experts call for more accessible and routine screening for children aged one to five.
The call was made during Arena Generasi Kuat Zat Besi, part of Dumex Dugro’s fourth Iron Strong Generation initiative. The event brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers and families to address childhood IDA, a condition that can affect a child’s learning, development and overall growth.
According to speakers at the event, around one in three Malaysian children may be at risk of IDA. The condition can be difficult for parents to spot, as many children do not show obvious symptoms.
Why Early IDA Screening Matters for Children
Iron plays an important role in a child’s growth and brain development, particularly during the early years.
Dr Sri Wahyu Taher, Consultant Family Medicine Specialist, shared that around 90% of children with IDA may not show clear symptoms. When signs do appear, they can be easily overlooked as part of everyday childhood behaviour.
Possible signs may include:
- Tiredness or low energy
- Poor appetite
- Pale skin
- Slower development
- Difficulty focusing or learning
“By the time signs appear, the deficiency may already be more advanced,” said Dr Sri Wahyu. She added that routine screening and suitable nutritional strategies can help parents take action earlier.
For many busy Malaysian families, children’s eating habits can vary from day to day. Some children may be picky eaters, while others may go through phases of eating small portions or favouring only certain foods. This makes regular growth monitoring and professional guidance important, especially during the preschool years.
Angie Low, Medical & Nutritional Science Director, Danone Southeast Asia
The Long-Term Impact of Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Angie Low, Medical & Nutritional Science Director for Danone Southeast Asia, highlighted that the first five years are especially important for a child’s brain development.
“90% of the child’s brain develops by age five,” she said. “Evidence shows that IDA can have long-lasting and potentially irreversible effects on brain development if not addressed early.”
She also shared that research has linked adequate iron intake with stronger thinking and learning abilities. For parents, this reinforces the importance of paying attention not only to whether children are eating enough, but whether they are receiving the nutrients they need to support healthy development.
Panel Discussion of Iron Strong Kids, Stronger Economy – Protecting Malaysia’s Future Workforce & Productivity
Experts Highlight the Wider Cost of IDA
The discussion also explored how childhood IDA could affect Malaysia beyond individual families.
Muhammad Daniel Kittu, Senior Researcher at the Social and Economic Research Initiative (SERI), said that productivity losses linked to childhood IDA may cost Malaysia an estimated RM10.8 billion annually, based on 2022 figures and conservative assumptions.
He explained that when children do not receive early support for iron deficiency, the impact may continue into adulthood through learning challenges and reduced long-term productivity.
YB Yeo Bee Yin, Member of Parliament for Puchong and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Women, Children and Community Development, said early IDA screening should be treated as a public-health priority.
She called for mandatory, non-invasive IDA screening for young children, describing it as a high-return investment in children’s futures and Malaysia’s future workforce.
Brand Ambassador, Nur Izzuddin
Nur Izzuddin Rumsani Joins the Movement
The event also introduced national men’s doubles badminton player Nur Izzuddin Rumsani as Dumex Dugro’s new brand ambassador.
A Dumex Dugro child since 1999 and now a father himself, Izzuddin said learning about the impact of IDA on brain development made him more aware of the importance of early action.
“When I found out about the impact of IDA on brain development, it really opened my eyes as a father,” he said.
He added that he hopes to encourage more Malaysian families to take the first step by learning about IDA and considering early screening for their children.
YB Yeo Bee Yin at the Arena Generasi Kuat Zat Besi
Free IDA Screening at IOI City Mall
Families can visit Arena Generasi Kuat Zat Besi at IOI City Mall Putrajaya until 21 June 2026. The event is held in partnership with Lotus’s and offers free, non-invasive IDA screenings and growth assessments for children.
Parents can also look forward to games, family-friendly activities and promotions on Dumex Dugro products.
The Iron Strong Generation movement will continue with five roadshows at selected Lotus’s stores nationwide from July to November 2026.
Parents who would like to learn more about IDA screening for children can visit the Dumex Dugro website here.
