The Director-General of Health, Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, has stated that Malaysia’s position on the Pandemic Treaty of the World Health Organisation Convention Agreement (WHO CA+) and the amendment of the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) aims to safeguard public health and the country’s sovereignty.
Dr Muhammad Radzi emphasized that the negotiations for the WHO CA+ and IHR 2005 are not confined to public health but also encompass other interconnected fields such as trade, environment, geopolitics, and socio-economics.
Thus, the Ministry of Health, as the coordinator of these negotiations, has conducted engagement sessions with various relevant ministries and government agencies, including the Attorney-General’s Chambers. The goal is to ensure the preservation of Malaysia’s sovereignty and laws, as well as the protection and prioritization of the interests of Malaysians.
In a statement released today (Oct 27), it is highlighted that Malaysia’s participation in these negotiations showcases the country’s commitment to enhancing global health security and future epidemic prevention measures.
Dr Muhammad Radzi stated, “Malaysia’s negotiation principles are grounded on sovereignty and autonomy, justice and solidarity, equality, the establishment of a sustainable healthcare system, as well as public awareness and transparency.” He further noted that these principles have garnered support from other member countries of the WHO.
The final decision regarding the negotiations will be issued once a consensus is reached by all member countries involved, according to Dr Muhammad Radzi.
He affirmed that the negotiations conducted until now have followed a systematic and comprehensive approach, providing each country, including Malaysia, with an opportunity to express their viewpoints and positions. – Bernama