Brunei Darussalam is committed to the Pandemic Agreement adopted during this year's World Health Organisation WHO Assembly including further discussions on the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing Annex and action on amendments to the International Health Regulations towards stronger preparedness and more equitable response capacity across the Western Pacific region. The matter was stressed by the Minister of Health during the 76th Regional Committee Meeting of the World Health Organisation for the Western Pacific Region, being held from 20th until 24th of October at Nadi, Republic of Fiji. The meeting also discussed, among other matters current health issues, programs and future directions of the WHO for the Western Pacific Region.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar also said that Brunei Darussalam welcomes the vision of the Regional Director of the Western Pacific Regional Office, which states that universal health coverage is the foundation of the health delivery system, prioritising strengthening basic health care, monitoring and preparedness for public health emergencies so that health services are resilient in the face of emergencies. Multi-sectoral cooperation has also been strengthened in addressing issues such as antimicrobial resistance and zoonoses.
In addition, Brunei Darussalam also has benefitted from digital health technology through the 'BruHealth' 5.0 application to empower each individual, strengthen surveillance and integrate preventive healthcare. The meeting also highlighted technical issues raised, including discussing the transition of mental health care to address global challenges; climate change and the safety and resilience of health systems.
While in Fiji, the Minister of Health paid a goodwill visit to The Honorable, Doctor Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, Minister of Health and Medical Services, Republic of Fiji, and the Honorable Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia to discuss and exchange views on the development of the health sector in their respective countries as well as regional health issues.
