Abbott and BIG CARiNG Launch National Influenza Awareness Campaign

22 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Abbott, a global healthcare leader, and BIG CARiNG Group (BCG), one of Malaysia's largest retail pharmacies, announced a strategic three-year collaboration to promote influenza awareness across Malaysia. The Influenza Awareness Programme, running from 2025 to 2027, aims to enhance public understanding of influenza and encourage proactive health management.

This nationwide initiative reflects a shared commitment to improving community health outcomes through education, engagement, and accessible healthcare information. The programme will be rolled out in phases across urban and rural areas, including health day influenza awareness sessions, public events both on-ground and via digital channels, to educate Malaysians on prevention and care. It will feature corporate health outreach, with workplace wellness programmes offering health talks and screenings in partnership with corporate entities. Additionally, travel fairs will have on-site booths and consultations to inform travellers about flu risks and protective measures. Schools and universities will host health awareness days with interactive sessions aimed at young people to foster early awareness and healthy habits.

Influenza remains a pressing public health issue in Malaysia, often under-reported due to its similarity to common respiratory infections and frequent confusion with the common cold. However, unlike the cold, influenza can cause serious complications such as pneumonia or worsening of existing chronic health conditions.

In 2024, over 30,000 cases were reported in Malaysia, including 17 influenza-related deaths.Vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, children under two, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses, are at increased risk of severe illness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to advocate for annual influenza vaccination as a vital strategy to reduce illness and death, especially among high-risk populations. Supporting this, Malaysia’s Ministry of Health has expanded its national vaccination programme to provide free influenza vaccines to seniors aged 60 and above with comorbidities at selected government facilities.

Kwa Kheng Hoe, General Manager of Abbott’s medicines business in Malaysia, stated, "Influenza is more than just a seasonal illness, it can disrupt lives, families, and communities. Through this collaboration with BCG, we are empowering Malaysians to take simple, preventive steps that can make a significant difference. Our goal is to equip individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and their families from influenza. Together, we aim to reduce the burden of influenza and build a healthier, more informed community."

Loo Jooi Leng, Head of Sustainability at BIG CARiNG Group, remarked, "As a leading retail pharmacy chain across Malaysia, we see firsthand how health awareness can transform lives. This partnership with Abbott goes beyond education; it’s about reaching people where they are and helping them stay healthy. Through our joint efforts in influenza prevention, and with support from our strategic partners, we reaffirm our mission to make healthcare more accessible and empower Malaysians to take charge of their wellbeing."