KAO Malaysia Partners with Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun Residents to Combat Dengue

KAO Malaysia Partners with Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun Residents to Combat Dengue

September 2, 2024 0 By Rowena Cletus

KAO Malaysia recently collaborated with the residents of Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun, one of Selangor’s 75 dengue hotspots, in ongoing efforts to tackle the dengue problem at its source. This community-wide initiative was organized in partnership with the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), Takeda Malaysia, and Impactlution, following the launch of Kao Malaysia’s GUARD OUR FUTURE project in June, which coincided with the introduction of its new Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum in Malaysia.

“Dengue fever remains a significant public health concern in Malaysia. With the increasing number of cases in Selangor, we must collaborate with the local community to address this issue together. This cleanup is part of a series of activities planned under our GUARD OUR FUTURE project, and we hope it marks a significant step toward protecting Malaysians from mosquito-borne diseases,” said Mr. Nishimaki Akira, President of KAO Malaysia.

KAO Reinforces Its Commitment to Addressing Social Issues

In June, KAO Malaysia expanded its GUARD OUR FUTURE project to protect future generations from mosquitoes. The initiative focuses on innovative product technology that provides a protective shield against mosquito bites. The Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum, originally launched in Thailand two years ago, has since been introduced in Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The serum is designed to make the skin repellent to mosquitoes, preventing bites without killing the insects, thereby reducing the risk of infection.

As part of its commitment to addressing social issues, KAO Malaysia has pledged to match donations of Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum units to the number of active dengue cases in Selangor in 2023. This initiative will result in over 61,080 units being donated, with each unit valued at RM15.90, totaling RM971,172.

Through this recent community cleanup effort, KAO Malaysia continues its comprehensive approach to fighting dengue fever as part of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, known as the Kirei Lifestyle Plan (KLP). This strategy outlines ambitious future goals and detailed actions centered on consumer well-being. While the Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serum prevents mosquitoes from landing on the skin, KAO’s community-level activities aim to reduce dengue cases by promoting a more sustainable environment.

Community Cleanup with Partners and Local Residents

A group of 100 volunteers, including representatives from KAO Malaysia, MBPJ, Takeda Malaysia, Impactlution, and the local community, participated in the cleanup. They were provided with tools like trash pickers, gloves, and garbage bags. The cleanup began around 9 AM, with participants actively identifying potential mosquito breeding sites and clearing stagnant water.

Impactlution, an ESG consulting firm involved in the effort, conducted a brief talk after the cleanup to raise awareness about waste management and its impact on the Aedes mosquito population. An MBPJ representative followed with a discussion on the importance of dengue education and awareness. Takeda, a global healthcare company, also contributed by offering educational talks on dengue symptoms and management. With the recent availability of its dengue vaccine in Malaysia, Takeda has pledged to work with public, private, and local communities to reduce the burden of dengue. To conclude the event, KAO Malaysia donated Bioré GUARD Mos Block Serums to the Flat PKNS Taman Dato Harun community.