Pathogens, Public Health, & Political Will: Why Sustained Leadership is Critical

With decades of progress in reducing malaria cases and deaths, the Asia Pacific region is now poised to accelerate its efforts towards malaria elimination using a science-based approach.

Welcoming all delegates to the second day of the 8thAsia Pacific Leaders’ Summit on Malaria Elimination in Port Moresby, Dr Saia Piukala, Regional Director for the World Health Organization (WHO) WesternPacific Regional Office, highlighted the WHO’s commitment to ending malaria throughclose engagement with government leaders, partners, and communities.

As the Asia Pacific region continues to adapt to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and the new global health landscape, countries in the region have shown unwavering resilience to accelerate progress in the fight against one of our oldest and deadliest diseases.  This year’s APLMA Leaders’ Dashboard, which tracks progress towards malaria elimination reveals notable policy reforms and milestones, even amidst the challenges of the pandemic.