Asean health ministers meet in Brunei to strengthen health systems

PUTRAJAYA: The two-day 13th Asean Health Ministers Meeting and related meetings kicked off in Brunei today as health ministers from Asean countries come together to discuss ways to strengthen the health systems.
They will also reaffirm their commitment to the vision of "A Healthy, Caring, and Sustainable Asean Community" pledged at the 12th Asean Health Ministers Meeting in Vietnam in 2014, which identified four clusters in order to achieve the goals of the Asean Post-2015 Health Development Agenda.
The four clusters are promoting a healthy lifestyle; responding to all hazards and emerging threats; strengthening the health system and access to care; and ensuring food safety.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam, who is representing Malaysia at the meeting, said he would be sharing his views and perspectives on building a sustainable and resilient health system which would strengthen healthcare delivery and wellbeing for everyone.
"I will also pledge my commitment as a health advocator in giving support to other member states to achieve Asean's goal in health development in the region," he said in a statement issued here today.
The 7th Asean Plus Three Health Ministers Meeting and 6th Asean-China Health Ministers Meeting will also be held in conjunction with the Asean Health Ministers Meeting. — Bernama