The persistent global threat of epidemics has highlighted the pressing need for greater preparedness and resilience within healthcare systems.
With the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic still vivid in collective memory, the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, observed annually on December 27, serves as a vital reminder of the world’s susceptibility to infectious diseases.
As the world faces continuing outbreaks of diseases like mpox, the need for a coordinated response and stronger health infrastructures has never been more pressing.
In the context of these challenges, Brunei has committed to taking significant strides to strengthen its healthcare systems and contribute to the global effort in combating epidemics. The Sultanate’s approach to epidemic preparedness is not only centred on enhancing national health systems but also on fostering international cooperation in tackling global health crises.
BRUNEI’S PROACTIVE APPROACH TO HEALTH
At the 77th World Health Assembly held in Geneva in June this year, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar highlighted Brunei’s robust response to health challenges.
In his speech during the plenary session on the draft of the 14th General Programme of Work, the minister outlined Brunei’s vision for its future healthcare system, focused on the concept of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He acknowledged the importance of achieving UHC to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all, especially in times of epidemic outbreaks.
Brunei has increased its healthcare budget to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and respond effectively to emerging health crises. This increase in budgetary allocation aims to enhance the country’s ability to detect, respond to, and mitigate the effects of epidemics.
Brunei’s Ministry of Health is actively reviewing a strategic plan to further enhance its healthcare delivery, with an emphasis on improving early detection, empowering patients, and preventing disease transmission.
The integration of digital health tools, such as the BruHealth app, has been instrumental in Brunei’s approach to epidemic management. These digital tools enable faster detection of diseases and the early implementation of health measures, supporting a more efficient and accessible healthcare system.
THE IMPORTANCE OF GLOBAL COOPERATION
While strengthening national healthcare systems is essential, no country can combat epidemics alone.
The UN has long stressed the importance of international cooperation and multilateralism in addressing global health crises.
On this International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed this sentiment, highlighting the urgent need for global solidarity in tackling future pandemics.
“COVID-19 was a wake-up call to the world. Millions of lives lost, economies shattered, health systems pushed to the brink and daily life upended for all of humanity,” he said in his message.
He called on countries to learn from past health emergencies, urging them to build resilient public health systems, invest in pandemic monitoring, and ensure equitable access to life-saving tools like vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics.
For Brunei, this call for global solidarity aligns with its own approach to epidemic preparedness. As a small but active member of the international community, Brunei has committed to participating in negotiations on the new Pandemic Agreement and amendments to the International Health Regulations.
This agreement aims to ensure that countries, regardless of their size or resources, are equipped to address future health threats effectively.
As the Minister of Health emphasised at the World Health Assembly, Brunei’s stance on the pandemic agreement is clear: it must be based on the principles of equality and justice, ensuring that all countries are able to contribute to and benefit from the global health security framework.
As a small country, “strengthening global health security structure is essential for national interest and the first line of defence in the face of future public health emergencies.
Therefore, Brunei’s stance is to ensure the agreed pandemic agreement will respect the principles of equality and justice among countries as well as produce meaningful improvements in preparedness and response to outbreak,” said the minister.
“Brunei expresses regrets over the ongoing situation in Gaza and Palestinian territories that has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries.”
He thus urged for all parties involved to fulfil their obligations under the international humanitarian law, especially in protecting the public as well as the medical workers.
On this International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, as the world faces the ever-present threat of infectious diseases, Brunei stands firm with the global community in ensuring a safer and healthier future for everyone, everywhere. – Wardi Wasil
