The Samoa Ministry of Health's CEO says he agrees with the Prime Minister's comments blaming parents' laziness for obesity among the country's children.
Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi made the comments in his speech at the launch of the Ministry's Nobesity programme.
The programme is targeting children in Years one to eight in urban schools.
The Ministry's CEO, Leausa Dr Take Naseri, says Tuilaepa was asking parents for their support.
"I think he's right in the sense that laziness is another part of it. When people sort of rely now on fast food rather than going on a diet - on the good or best local foods available."
Leausa Dr Take Naseri says obesity in children is not an overwhelming problem, but the ministry aims to raise better awareness about the issue in the next generation.
Listen to full interview with Leausa Dr Take Naseri on Dateline Pacific
Urbanisation in Samoa is contributing to obesity Photo: AFP