WHO CHIEF COMMENDS MALAYSIA'S COMMITMENT, CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE IN GLOBAL HEALTH

PUTRAJAYA, April 1 (Bernama) -- Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has expressed appreciation to Malaysia for its commitment and active engagement in international health issues, as well as its constructive role in strengthening global cooperation based on solidarity.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Health said in a statement today that the acknowledgement was made during Dr Tedros’ official visit to the country, reflecting a close, strategic and sustained partnership between Malaysia and the WHO in enhancing health system preparedness and resilience.

The ministry said the visit also carries direct positive implications for Malaysians, particularly in improving prevention, preparedness and public health response through ongoing negotiations on Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing under the Intergovernmental Working Group.

It said that such collaboration strengthens national preparedness and early warning systems against infectious disease threats through amendments to the International Health Regulations and the proposed Pandemic Agreement.

“These efforts will enable Malaysia to detect and respond more swiftly to future health crises, while minimising disruptions to economic activity and social continuity,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad stressed that Malaysia’s active participation at the WHO ensures the country’s voice continues to be represented in the global health landscape.

He said Malaysia remains committed to working closely with the WHO to ensure its healthcare system stays robust, inclusive and ready to face future global health challenges for the well-being of its people.

-- BERNAMA