KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 — Malaysia and the Philippines have agreed to collaborate in various areas of health care after both governments signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today.
Malaysian Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad and Philippines Health Secretary Dr Francisco T. Duque III met in Putrajaya today to discuss strengthening both countries’ bilateral ties through collaboration on health care.
“Both Health Ministers emphasised the importance of advancing collaboration to address cross-border health concerns amidst the rapidly changing global environment,” they said in a joint statement.
“Health cooperation between neighbouring countries is crucial to rapidly respond to public health threats and prevent greater health risks including epidemics, microbial resistance, among others.
“The two Health Ministers expressed their hopes that the outcome of the meeting will further strengthen the ties and cooperation in the management of cross-border issues relating to the health of both countries and across various stakeholders.”
Under the MOU, both Malaysia and the Philippines agreed to cooperate in the areas of primary health care; reproductive health; health education; human resources for health development; nutrition; and exchange of information on issues related to food safety and quality, including but not limited to rapid alert systems related to imported products.
Both countries will also collaborate on prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases; regulatory control of pharmaceuticals; traditional medicines, herbal medicine, health supplements and cosmetic products; medical devices; health tourism; health research; and health care services.
A Joint Technical Working Group led by designated officials from the health ministries of both countries will implement the MOU.
