KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, 28 October 2025 — Abbott, a global healthcare leader, has announced a three-year collaboration with BIG CARiNG Group (BCG), one of Malaysia’s largest retail pharmacy chains, to promote influenza awareness and prevention across the country. Running from 2025 to 2027, the Influenza Awareness Program aims to enhance public understanding of the flu, encourage preventive action, and empower Malaysians to take charge of their health.
The nationwide initiative underscores Abbott and BIG CARiNG’s shared commitment to improving community health outcomes through education, engagement, and accessible healthcare information. Through a phased rollout across urban and rural areas, the program will include public awareness sessions, workplace health outreach, travel fairs, and youth-focused activities at schools and universities.
Each component is designed to reach Malaysians in meaningful ways, whether through on-ground events or digital engagement, by promoting better awareness of influenza symptoms, prevention, and vaccination.
Influenza continues to pose a serious yet under-recognised public health challenge in Malaysia. Often mistaken for the common cold, the flu can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia or the worsening of chronic illnesses. In 2024 alone, over 30,000 cases were reported nationwide, including 17 influenza-related deaths. Vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions face particularly high risks of severe infection.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends annual influenza vaccination as the most effective way to reduce illness and prevent complications, especially among high-risk populations. Supporting this global guidance, Malaysia’s Ministry of Health has expanded its national vaccination program to provide free influenza vaccines for seniors aged 60 and above with comorbidities at selected government facilities.
“Influenza is more than just a seasonal illness—it can disrupt lives, families, and communities,” said Kwa Kheng Hoe, General Manager of Abbott’s medicines business in Malaysia. “Through this collaboration with BIG CARiNG, we’re empowering Malaysians to take simple, preventive steps that make a real difference. Together, we aim to reduce the burden of influenza and build a healthier, more informed community.”
Echoing this commitment, Loo Jooi Leng, Head of Sustainability at BIG CARiNG Group, said:
“As a leading retail pharmacy, 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. With the support of our partners, we’re reaffirming our mission to make healthcare accessible and empower Malaysians to take charge of their well-being.”
Unlike the common cold, influenza symptoms typically appear suddenly and can range from mild to severe. Common signs include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue.
To protect against the flu, health experts recommend five key steps: getting vaccinated annually, practising good hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, improving indoor air quality, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Through this strategic partnership, Abbott and BIG CARiNG hope to elevate national flu awareness and encourage proactive health management. Malaysians are encouraged to visit their nearest BIG or CARiNG pharmacy for more information on influenza prevention, or to explore the companies’ websites for expert guidance on protecting themselves and their loved ones.
