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The Star
6 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Brunei's Ministry of Health commits to stronger primary healthcare as decentralisation marks 25 years
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Minister of Health Datuk Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar, in a message underscored the Ministry of Health's (MoH) commitment to further strengthen primary healthcare as the foundation for an inclusive, sustainable and resilient health system. The minister said, 'Today marks the 25th anniversary of the implementation of the basic health services decentralisation policy in Brunei Darussalam, which is a turning point in the history of the progress and development of the public service, especially for the MoH and has driven major changes in the health system in the country.' He said, 'Alhamdulillah, with the wise and transparent leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the initiative was consented to in 2000 with the objective of bringing health services closer to the citizens and residents of this country, making them accessible, affordable and of quality, regardless of location or individual background.' Primary healthcare services, he mentioned, 'are the first contact between the health service and the community. Therefore, this service has the capacity to use a holistic approach through multidisciplinary expertise, especially in the management and control of chronic diseases, while further strengthening the prevention aspect by promoting healthy lifestyles and early disease screening'. The development of infrastructure based on the one stop centre concept, which is also in line with the Millennium Development Goals and now the Sustainable Development Goals, he said, 'has made it easier for citizens and residents to receive comprehensive primary health services and has thus raised the level of achievement of Brunei Darussalam among the World Health Organization countries with a high universal health coverage Index'. In line with Brunei Vision 2035, he pointed out, 'Primary healthcare will continue to be a key pillar in the healthcare system in Brunei Darussalam, which has been proven to be more cost-effective, efficient, and safe towards producing a healthier community and generation with a high quality of life.' Throughout the 25 years of this policy's implementation, various significant achievements have been made, such as expanded access with the establishment of health centres and clinics in strategic and planned locations, in line with the increasing number and health needs of citizens and residents since decentralisation was implemented. The provision of infrastructure and facilities for primary health services under the National Development Plan, he explained, 'is growing and designed in accordance with the development of medical technology and professional skills in providing more sophisticated and effective services'. He also shared, 'As we look back on this 25-year journey, we also do not forget the role and contribution of all parties involved since the beginning, including the persistence and perseverance of policymakers and planners who founded the changes in the health system, the commitment and sacrifice of health professionals and workers supporting the implementation of the decentralisation policy, and also other stakeholders consisting of government agencies and the community, especially grassroots leaders and the community itself, who also contributed to the successful implementation of the decentralisation of basic health services in this country.' The minister continued, 'We move forward with full commitment to the principle of 'Health for All', for the well-being of the citizens and future generations. This is the time for the MoH to renew its commitment to providing a stronger, more accessible, equitable and people-centred health system which can be accomplished with effective and sustainable innovations such as the use of digital technology in the provision of primary healthcare services and empowering the community to be more knowledgeable and involved in healthcare.' - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
Brunei calls for stronger health partnerships
Brunei Minister of Health Datuk Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar outlined the country's health challenges. - BB/ANN BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Minister of Health Datuk Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar attended the Annual Health Roundtable recently held in Geneva, Switzerland, in conjunction with the 78th World Health Assembly. The two-day Roundtable, themed 'The Intelligent Age: Redefining Healthcare for the Future', was hosted by the World Economic Forum (WEF) Centre for Health and Healthcare. It brought together global leaders to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI)-powered innovation and cross-regional policy collaboration, strengthen public-private partnerships to advance equitable access to health and reduce global health risks. The event gathered ministers of health, policymakers, senior industry executives, international organisations, philanthropic leaders and key stakeholders to explore the evolving global health landscape, in alignment with the Assembly's agenda. On the second day, the Minister participated in several discussion sessions, including 'Closing the Gaps: Health Equity in the Era of Rising NCDs', 'From Lifespan to Health Span: Rethinking Preventative Healthcare with Innovations', 'Climate and Health: Preparing for Business Risks and Surging Health Demands' and 'Healthy Data Ecosystems: Building a Global Architecture for Health'. He also served as a panel member during the session 'Health for All & Health Equity – Bridging the Gap: Health Equity in an Era of Rising NCDs'. The discussion focused on inequities caused by the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases and mental health, particularly among communities with limited access to health services. The minister highlighted Brunei 's commitment to Universal Health Coverage, ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to quality healthcare services without financial hardship. This commitment aligns with the goals of Brunei Vision 2035 for a high quality of life, implemented through a Whole-of-Nation approach. He also outlined the country's current challenges in addressing the increasing prevalence of NCDs and the need to close health gaps. The minister noted that Brunei continues to invest in expanding access to basic healthcare services and remains committed to leveraging technology and data to improve health outcomes. He emphasised the importance of collaboration across public, private and community sectors, and upheld the principle that health is a shared responsibility. The minister also shared how digital transformation initiatives such as BruHealth 5.0 serve as cost-effective tools in bridging healthcare access gaps, particularly for marginalised communities. The platform supports population health initiatives through preventive care and NCD management, including awareness campaigns, health screenings, telehealth services and remote monitoring. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
05-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Brunei charity walk raises over BND16,000 for children with autism
Participants in the Pasar Kitani Charity Brisk Walk, organised by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, at the Rimba Agribusiness Centre. - BB/ANN BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: A total of BND16,252 (US$12495) was raised during the Pasar Kitani Charity Brisk Walk organised by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism through the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood on Sunday (May 4). The funds were handed over to the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources Brunei and the Learning Ladders Society (which provides advocacy, public education, information and support for children with autism and their families) prior to the start of the walk. Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Datuk Seri Setia Dr Abdul Manaf Metussin presented the contributions to representatives from both organisations. The charity walk, divided into 2.5-kilometre (km) and 4.5-km categories, also aimed to motivate farmers and agrifood entrepreneurs to boost their income through Pasar Kitani, while fostering market networking. The initiative encourages farmers to become successful and progressive agri-entrepreneurs. Pasar Kitani, held at the Rimba Agribusiness Centre every Saturday and Sunday from 6am to 2pm, features a variety of local agriculture and agrifood products. Members of the public are encouraged to visit and support local producers. The permanent secretary, deputy permanent secretaries, heads of department and officials from the ministry were also present. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
