ASEAN and the UK have launched the ASEAN-UK Health Security Partnership (HSP), a five-year initiative to strengthen Southeast Asia’s ability to tackle emerging health threats.
The launch ceremony, held in Petaling Jaya, was officiated by UK Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Tiffin, who emphasized the programme’s role in fostering long-term health resilience through shared expertise and regional collaboration.
“This is a truly exciting moment. The UK brings deep expertise in health security, but we also recognize the wealth of knowledge within ASEAN. This partnership is about mutual learning and building a safer, healthier future together,” said Ambassador Tiffin.
A Flagship Commitment Under ASEAN-UK Plan of Action
The HSP is a flagship deliverable under the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action (2022–2026) and underscores the UK’s commitment as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner. The programme will provide grant funding for projects that enhance healthcare systems, improve access to care, and address threats intensified by climate change and other global challenges.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely reinforcement of ASEAN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional health systems.
“The ASEAN-UK HSP complements our collective mission to enhance pandemic preparedness and build resilient healthcare infrastructure. We deeply value the UK’s commitment to meaningful and lasting cooperation,” he said.
Key focus areas of the HSP include:
- Enhancing pandemic preparedness and response mechanisms
- Tackling emerging infectious diseases
- Strengthening health system resilience across ASEAN member states
- Facilitating expert partnerships between ASEAN and UK institutions
The programme will also serve as a platform for regional health security experts to collaborate, share knowledge, and co-develop innovative solutions to future health challenges.
For more information, visit the official Bernama article.
