Re-interpreting the citizen consumer: Alternative consumer activism and the rights to health and development

► Alternative (Southern) consumer activism presents significant sites of nodal health governance in Malaysia. ► Local and global health rights are claimed at such sites e.g. the Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP). ► Alternative (Southern) consumer activism distinctively integrates health, development, social justice and environment issues. ► Alternative consumer activism fits with rights-based approaches, emphasising entitlements, accountability, and participation. ► This paper highlights the important role of Southern nodes within global networks mobilizing health rights and public health.