PETALING JAYA: Every nation needs to identify and map its response and healthcare networks to build a coherent strategy for handling health emergencies, says Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.
“The Covid-19 pandemic (highlighted) the need to respond early and speedily, and to strengthen the coordinated global response,” he said after chairing the 3rd WHO Standing Committee on Health Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response (SCHEPPR) in Geneva on Wednesday (Sept 13).
“It is apt that we leverage on the lessons learnt to build a health system that is resilient and better prepared for tomorrow,” the former Health director-general said.
He noted that the standing committee provided an important space for its members to discuss, engage and be informed on global health emergencies.
“More importantly, we can strengthen the decision-making, strategic action and governance of WHO during crises and emergencies.
“It was a fruitful and engaging discussion and indeed a (moment of) pride to lead SCHEPPR on prevention, preparedness and response,” he added.
