Kuala lumpur: ASEAN and China are seeking to deepen their decade-long health cooperation as the region confronts emerging public health threats, climate change, demographic shifts, and rapid technological transformation. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that the partnership is entering an increasingly consequential chapter, with both sides working towards resilient, inclusive, and sustainable health systems capable of responding to present and future challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dzulkefly highlighted in his opening remarks at the 10th ASEAN-China Health Ministers' Meeting that the rapidly evolving health landscape necessitates a shared regional imperative for resilient health systems. The meeting, which was co-chaired by China's National Health Commission Vice-Minister Dr. Liu Jinfeng, coincides with the 17th ASEAN Health Ministers Meeting and Related Meetings.

Dzulkefly stated that the discussions, themed 'Healthy ASEAN: Together Towards Equitable, Future Ready Health Systems', aim to contribute to the implementation of the ASEAN Strategic Health Agenda 2026-2030. The goal is to translate common aspirations into practical actions that bolster the health resilience of over two billion people across ASEAN and China.

Furthermore, the meeting seeks to provide strategic direction for advancing the ASEAN-China Memorandum of Understanding on health cooperation. It aims to capture collective commitments through a Joint Statement, ensuring that the partnership delivers tangible benefits to the people.