KAO Malaysia Targets Dengue Prevention Through Community Engagement in Collaboration with Takeda Malaysia, MBPJ and Impactlution

KUALA LUMPUR, 24 August 2024 – KAO Malaysia recently joined forces with residents of Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun, one of Selangor's 75 dengue hotspots, in ongoing efforts to tackle the dengue scourge at its source. Organized in collaboration with Takeda Malaysia, Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), and Impactlution, this community-wide initiative is part of Kao Malaysia's broader GUARD OUR FUTURE project, launched in June alongside the introduction of its new Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum in Malaysia.

Dengue fever remains a persistent public health issue in Malaysia. "With the rise in cases in the state of Selangor, we must work with the local community to address this serious issue together. This cleanup was part of a series of planned activities under our GUARD OUR FUTURE project, and we hope that this will mark the next significant step toward our goal of protecting the lives of Malaysians against mosquito-borne diseases," said Mr. Nishimaki Akira, President of KAO Malaysia.

In June, KAO Malaysia expanded its GUARD OUR FUTURE project globally to protect future lives from mosquitoes. The project centers on innovative product technology and formulation designed to provide a protective shield, keeping mosquitoes away from people's skin and preventing mosquito bites. Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum, initially introduced in Thailand, has now launched in Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.

In line with KAO's commitment to solving social issues and protecting future lives, the mosquito repellent joins its Bioré brand lineup, which shields skin from environmental stressors like UV rays, intense heat, and infectious diseases. KAO Malaysia has pledged to match a donation of Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum units with the number of active dengue fever cases in Selangor in 2023, totaling over 61,080 units valued at RM971,172.

KAO Malaysia is committed to a multi-faceted approach to fighting dengue as part of its ESG strategy, named the Kirei Lifestyle Plan (KLP). This strategy outlines ambitious goals for the future, focusing on consumer-centered activities. While Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum prevents mosquitoes from landing on the skin, KAO's community-level activities aim to reduce dengue fever by fostering a more sustainable environment.

The event began with an energetic aerobic session, engaging participants in a lively warm-up to prepare for the day's activities. Following the aerobic activity, over 140 volunteers from KAO Malaysia, MBPJ, Takeda Malaysia, Impactlution, and the local community gathered to begin the clean-up at 9 AM. Participants were provided with cleanup tools, such as trash pickers, gloves, and garbage disposal bags. The group worked diligently, identifying potential mosquito breeding sites and clearing stagnant water.

Impactlution, an ESG consulting firm specializing in community and environmental projects, presented a short talk on waste management and its impact on the Aedes mosquito population. MBPJ followed with a briefing on the importance of dengue education and awareness. Takeda Malaysia, a global healthcare company, offered educational talks on dengue symptoms and management, pledging continued collaboration to reduce the dengue burden. The day concluded with a donation of Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum to the Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun community.

Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum is a mosquito repellent featuring a technology that makes the skin repulsive to mosquitoes. The non-greasy serum, similar in texture to a body lotion, provides comprehensive coverage, creating a protective shield against mosquitoes. It offers up to 8 hours of protection and is available in two fragrances: Fresh Lavender and Sweet Blossom, at a recommended retail price of RM24.90 for a 100g tube.

Established in 1973, KAO (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd is an overseas subsidiary of KAO Corporation, the leading toiletry manufacturer in Japan. KAO Malaysia markets a wide range of beauty care, home care, and sanitary products, including Bioré, Liese, Curél, MegRhythm, Attack, Magiclean, Laurier, and Merries. KAO Malaysia strives to create a sustainable world through its core domains of cleanliness, beauty, and health.

The Selangor State Government, led by the Menteri Besar, supported by members of the state's Executive Council. Among these members is YB Puan Jamaliah Jamaluddin who headed the Public Health portfolio which includes dengue management and prevention program. The Public Health portfolio emphasizes preventive healthcare and broader public health measures to ensure the well-being of Selangor's residents.

Takeda is a values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company committed to creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. Takeda Malaysia, headquartered in Petaling Jaya, focuses on providing life-transforming treatments and improving patient experiences.

Impactlution is a consulting firm dedicated to driving sustainable transformation through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The firm provides tailored solutions to help businesses navigate ESG complexities and achieve long-term resilience and success.