BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Brunei Darussalam will host its first International Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Exhibition and Conference from October 8 to 12 at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas, in a nationwide effort to tackle one of the country’s most pressing health challenges.
NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory illnesses, account for around 75 per cent of total mortality in the country. Over 70 per cent of cases are linked to preventable risk factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, obesity and hypertension.
The five-day event, organised by the Ministry of Health (MoH) in collaboration with Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) and Gleneagles JPMC (GJPMC), was announced during a press conference Monday chaired by Acting Permanent Secretary at the MoH Dr Hajah Rafidah Gharif and Deputy Co-Chairperson of the event Pengiran Dr Hajah Siti Nur’ashikin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Tengah.
Dr Rafidah said, “NCDs remain one of the most pressing health challenges of our time. They not only affect individuals and families but also place a heavy burden on healthcare systems and the economy. Tackling NCDs requires a whole-of-nation and whole-of-society approach, which is why this international platform is so important.”
Themed “Bridging Communities and Healthcare”, the event will bring together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, community organisations and international partners. It aims to share best practices, strengthen partnerships across government, private and civil society, and engage the public in inclusive and sustainable solutions.
The NCD Exhibition, open to the public from October 8 to 12, will feature interactive zones, lifestyle showcases, educational talks and practical tools to support healthier living. Meanwhile, the Scientific Conference from October 10 to 12 will gather healthcare professionals, academics and industry experts to discuss mental health, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, lifestyle medicine and nutrition through keynote addresses, panel discussions and workshops.
Pengiran Dr Nur’ashikin said the event responds to the World Health Organization’s call for integrated action on NCDs and mental health, serving as a platform for dialogue, education and community engagement.
The International NCD Exhibition and Conference also aims to position Brunei Darussalam as a regional hub for medical knowledge exchange and healthcare collaboration. – Brunei Bulletin/ANN
