KUALA LUMPUR: Asean member states have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen global health security and regional resilience, guided by the principles of solidarity and equity, following the Covid-19 pandemic, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister said as Asean Chair, Malaysia, on behalf of member states, underscored the region’s continued efforts to tackle transnational health issues, shaped by climate change, economic disparities and geo-political challenges.
He also highlighted the grouping’s ongoing commitment to the One Health approach and the establishment of the Asean One Health Network to strengthen regional coordination.
Asean, he added, has made significant strides through regional frameworks and mechanisms, including the Asean Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases, Asean Biological Threats Surveillance Centre and the Asean Emergency Operations Centre Network.
“We call for accelerated efforts to ensure fair and timely access to essential medical countermeasures,” he said at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva yesterday.
In his speech, Dzulkefly also commended the development of the WHO Pandemic Agreement, calling it a testament to global solidarity in strengthening preparedness and response.
He said Asean is also committed to strengthening regional peace and prosperity by enhancing regional resilience and self-sufficiency.
Reaffirming the grouping’s strategic partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dzulkefly called for sustainable financing and inclusive decision-making in global health governance, given that the region’s vision is rooted in inclusivity, sustainability and shared progress.
“We will reinforce Asean’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to public health emergencies, advancing universal health coverage through strengthening health systems and expanding further collaboration in healthy lifestyles, digital health and health security.
“Asean calls for continued international support to bolster our collective efforts in building a healthier, more resilient Asean Community.
“We are dedicated to working together to address health challenges and improve the well-being of our people, and humanity at large.”
