Page 11 - FIGHT AGAINST UNCERTAINTY 5 FEB 2021

FOREWORD BY
THE WHO REPRESENTATIVE TO MALAYSIA, BRUNEI DARUSSALAM AND SINGAPORE

Following the severe acute respiratory syndrome the implementation of modelling and projections for the
(SARS) outbreak in 2003, the government and health introduction and lifting of public health and social measures,
authorities of Malaysia have taken great steps to and health services capacity. Collaboration also included
bolster the country’s health security and multisectoral timely and proactive two-way communication with the
response capacity for health emergencies and disaster public to address uncertainty and support compliance with
preparedness. the measures introduced, provision of the first COVID-19
test kits before they became commercially available,
These measures were reinforced by a Joint External sharing of critical diagnostic and treatment protocols
Evaluation of the International Health Regulations and WHO guidance, and involving Malaysia in global
core capacities conducted with the World Health research.
Organization (WHO) in late 2019. The most critical
gaps within human and animal health systems and the This book is a testament to a long tradition of
containment of environmental hazards were identified, partnership and solidarity, and it is a story about
which provided an opportunity for enhancement sharing knowledge and expertise, and building
of preparedness and response capacities. All of resilient health systems, together.
these actions helped Malaysia to face the COVID-19
outbreak better prepared and with the infrastructure
and well-trained workforce in place to provide high-
quality health care.

Building on long-standing cooperation, the Ministry of Dr Lo Ying-Ru Jacqueline
Health Malaysia and WHO worked jointly to address Head of Mission and WHO Representative to
the emerging needs of the country. This included Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore

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