BRUNEI (CU)_ Australia and the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibn Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam have a long history of strong cooperation in the health sector. In a major attempt to further enhance the cooperation between the Sultanate of Brunei and Australia, particularly in the health sector, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Brunei Darussalam Medicines Control Authority (BDMCA), the Ministry of Health (MoH), and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) at Australia’s Department of Health and Aged Care.
The MoU was signed virtually. The signing ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Haji Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin; the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ang Swee Hui; the Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Management) of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman; and other prominent officials of the ministry.
The MoU aims at joint efforts on medicinal products including promoting the progress of joint initiatives related to the regulation of medicinal products and enabling the sharing of information on the regulatory framework of pre- and post-market goods, including information relevant papers on advice, policy, procedures, standards, and methodologies. The MOU also established a framework for testing, monitoring, and reporting on any possible safety concerns with therapeutic items that might have detrimental impacts on consumers. Besides safeguarding the safety of medicinal items, the joint agreement also addresses initiatives to promote health in both nations. The permanent secretary also emphasized the necessity of both nations to develop services linked to medicinal items.
In addition, he believed that the MoU would enable two nations to share beneficial information and knowledge, particularly in formulating laws for the control of medicinal goods. He also highlighted that collaboration in the regulation of medicinal goods through the sharing of information and knowledge will enhance the capabilities of both nations to safeguard the health and safety of their respective populations. The MoU is part of the Ministry of Health’s effort to enhance the diversity and standard of medical services for Brunei’s citizens and residents, as well as the capacity building for health personnel between the BDMCA and TGA.
