Sarawak seeks collaborative partnerships to combat tropical diseases, says Deputy Premier

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By Wilfred Pilo

KUCHING, Sept 19: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has emphasised Sarawak’s readiness to tackle tropical diseases, while calling for interdisciplinary partnerships with experts in the field.

Speaking at the 21st International Congress for Tropical Medicine and Malaria held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching today, Dr Sim stated that Sarawak is eager to leverage global knowledge and expertise rather than financial aid.

“We don’t need your money but your knowledge and expertise. That’s why we are here for interdisciplinary collaborative partnerships. It’s a worthy cause because together we can make a difference,” he said during the officiating ceremony.

Dr Sim, who also serves as the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, reflected on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, stressing how the crisis highlighted the importance of global cooperation in addressing emerging health threats.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us the urgency of working together to overcome health challenges. Knowing how to combat tropical diseases is just as crucial, as these diseases affect us all,” he added.

To tackle the complexities of infectious diseases, Dr Sim emphasised the importance of vigilance and proactive responses to new threats.

He urged participants to focus on the dual impact of climate change and emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), on tropical diseases.

“Climate change can influence disease patterns in the tropics, affecting illnesses like malaria, parasitic infections, viruses, and fungi. And whether we like it or not, AI is the way forward and can revolutionize healthcare,” he noted.

Dr Sim expressed hope that by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, researchers and policymakers could advance the understanding of disease transmission, develop innovative prevention strategies, and ultimately improve global health outcomes.

“The theme of this year’s congress, ‘Global Responses and Interdisciplinary Research Towards Eliminating Tropical Diseases,‘ aligns perfectly with our efforts,” he said.

Dr Sim also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for academic and research cooperation between the Asian Alliance of Societies for Tropical Medicine and Parasitology.

The conference was attended by 1,200 participants from 58 countries. Also present were International Federation for Tropical Medicine President Professor Dr Malcom Jones, Malaysian Society of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine President Professor Dr Lucas Low Van Lun, and Organising Chairperson Professor Dr Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain. — DayakDaily

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