Why Malaysians Are Cutting Sugar in 2026 — But Not Giving Up Desserts
Malaysians are becoming more conscious about sugar for health reasons, but desserts are still very much part of daily life. In 2026, the shift isn’t about quitting sweets. It’s about choosing desserts that are less sweet, more balanced, and still comforting.
In 2026, one phrase keeps showing up everywhere in Malaysia: “kurang manis.”
You hear it at kopitiams, cafés, bakeries, and even at family gatherings. People are cutting down on sugar, but if you think that means Malaysians are giving up desserts, think again.
We still celebrate birthdays with cake.
We still meet friends over pastries.
We still believe dessert is part of living.
So what’s really changing?
Malaysians Are Not Dieting — They’re Adjusting
This isn’t a “diet culture” movement.
Most Malaysians aren’t counting calories or following extreme food rules. What they are doing is becoming more aware:
- More people have family members with diabetes or sugar-related issues
- Doctors are encouraging moderation, not elimination
- Younger generations are more informed about ingredients
- Parents are more careful about what they buy for children
- The mindset has shifted from “no sugar” to “not too much sugar.”
And that’s a very Malaysian way of thinking — practical, balanced, realistic.
“Kurang Manis” Is No Longer Awkward — It’s Normal
A few years ago, asking for less sugar felt like making a fuss. In 2026, it’s completely normal.
People casually say:
“Tak nak terlalu manis”
“Kurang gula sikit boleh?”
“Low sugar ok”
This applies to drinks, meals, and very noticeably desserts.
The goal isn’t to remove sweetness. It’s to avoid that overwhelming, cloying taste that leaves you feeling heavy and guilty.
Desserts Are Emotional for Malaysians
Let’s be honest — desserts here are not just food.
They’re birthday traditions, afternoon tea moments, family conversations, and comfort after a long, stressful day.
For many Malaysians, dessert equals connection. That emotional value doesn’t disappear just because people want to be healthier.
This is why desserts haven’t declined — they’ve evolved.
The Rise of Low-Sugar & Keto Desserts in Malaysia
In 2026, healthier dessert options are no longer niche.
Across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, more people are choosing:
- Low-sugar cakes
- Sugar-reduced pastries
- Keto-friendly desserts
- Desserts made with alternative sweeteners
And the demand isn’t coming only from gym-goers or people strictly on keto.
It’s coming from office workers buying cakes for colleagues, adult children buying desserts their parents can enjoy, families with mixed dietary needs, and customers who simply don’t like overly sweet food.
This shows one thing clearly: health-aware desserts have gone mainstream.
Cafés That Understand Malaysians Are Doing Better
Cafés that adapt to this behaviour are seeing stronger customer loyalty.
They don’t shame customers for wanting dessert. They offer options instead of strict rules. They keep flavours familiar, not “diet food” tasting. And they respect local taste preferences.
In neighbourhood areas like Sri Petaling, this shift is especially visible. At Su Chan Patisserie, customers regularly ask for desserts that are less sweet but still enjoyable. Some are looking for keto options, others simply want something lighter — especially when buying for families with different age groups. It’s a daily reminder that Malaysians aren’t giving up desserts; they’re just choosing them more thoughtfully.
This Is a Behaviour Shift, Not a Short-Term Trend
Sugar reduction in Malaysia isn’t a passing trend driven by social media.
It’s a long-term change in how people think about food. People ask more questions about ingredients, prefer moderation, and support businesses that offer better choices.
Customers return to places they trust — places that understand their lifestyle instead of forcing extremes.
Balance Is the New Indulgence
In 2026, Malaysians aren’t choosing between health or happiness.
We want both.
We’ll cut down on sugar.
We’ll be mindful.
But we’ll still sit down with a slice of cake, enjoy good conversation, and make memories.
Because in Malaysia, desserts aren’t about excess. They’re about connection, comfort, and living well.
Less sugar. Same joy.
