B U D A K M E D I K

PUTRAJAYA: Nations must tackle the challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCD) by providing quality care that is co-ordinated and cost effective, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.

The Prime Minister said cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases as well as cancer and diabetes caused an estimated 35 million deaths each year or 60% of all deaths globally, with 80% occuring in low and middle-income countries.

He said it was necessary to “re-engineer” the healthcare delivery system to provide quality care.



“In order to do this, a formidable health workforce is needed.

“Individuals also need to play their part by embracing a healthy lifestyle and be responsible for their own health,” he said when addressing the 61st session of the World Health Organistion Regional Committee for the Western Pacific here yesterday.

Najib said the recent adoption of the United Nations General Assembly resolution on the prevention and control of NCDs was a manifestation of the global community’s political commitment to tackle the issue.

The Prime Minister also said this year’s WHO regional commitee meeting was significant as it provided an opportunity for experts to examine the response and effects of the A (H1N1) global pandemic which had been a “baptism of fire” for affected nations.

For better health: Najib placing the number 61 to mark the launching of the 61st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific at Putrajaya International Convention Centre yesterday. Looking on are (from left) Dr Shin, Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, deputy director-general of WHO Dr Anafi Asamoa-Baah and director of Health, Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and chairman of the 60th Session of Regional Committee for Western Pacific Dr Lam Ping-Yan.

Najib also said Malaysia wanted to transform its healthcare system to be more efficient and effective, adding a blueprint was being worked out to develop 1Care for 1Malaysia, a health system that would meet the needs of the population, provide quality healthcare and ensure universal coverage.

The Prime Minister said while Malaysia had been cited by international bodies as having a good model for health care, particularly in providing services to the rural population, it was necessary to change the structure to enable the Government to serve the people better.

Meanwhile, Najib said the Cabinet will only decide whether to go ahead with the Genetically Modified Mosquito Plan after assessing the outcome and effectiveness of the pilot project.

“The level of public consciousness on cleanliness is not that high, so we have to think of innovative ways to address the dengue problem,’’ he said.

The Star Online