.svg)
Singapore, 23 April 2026 — In partnership with the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA), the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is proud to host the 10th Asia Pacific Leaders’ Summit on Malaria Elimination in Vientiane on 5 June 2026. Under the theme “Committed to 2030: Regional Action for the Last Mile”, this year’s Summit will place a strong focus on the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), with the aim of accelerating malaria elimination across the subregion by 2030.
From 2012 to 2024, the GMS has achieved an impressive 70% decrease in overall cases, with Lao PDR recording 99% drop over the same period. With the substantial progress made through coordinated elimination efforts, the subregion now enters a decisive phase where continued commitment and targeted investments are essential to finish the job and prevent resurgence.
“Hosting the 10th Asia Pacific Leaders’ Summit on Malaria Elimination reflects Lao PDR’s strong commitment to ending malaria and safeguarding the health and livelihoods of our people. The Greater Mekong Subregion has made remarkable progress over the last decade, and we must now upscale our efforts by strengthening cross-border cooperation and ensure that sustainable financing remains in place so that we reach zero malaria – and keep it there,” said Honorable Minister for Health Baykham Khattiya of Lao PDR.
With three countries approaching fewer than 300 annual cases and the Asia Pacific region standing at a critical juncture in the elimination timeline, this high-level Summit will harness collective momentum to address remaining challenges and to discuss long-term programmatic and financial sustainability.
“The Greater Mekong Subregion is within reach of becoming the first multi-country subregion in Asia Pacific to eliminate malaria. Steadfast country leadership, relentless efforts of national programs, and the support of partners underpin this achievement. Elimination is within reach, but it requires achieving zero indigenous transmission — the last mile is often the hardest. At this pivotal moment for malaria elimination, and within a shifting global health financing landscape, the Summit serves as a catalyst for leaders and partners to mobilize domestic resources to ensure an end to malaria while committing to the systems needed to prevent resurgence.,” said Dr. Sarthak Das, Chief Executive Officer of APLMA.
By uniting health ministers, senior government officials, technical experts, civil society leaders, and global partners at the Summit, this collective action will ignite renewed commitment and drive, ensuring GMS stands ready to cross the finish line on malaria elimination and secure a healthier future for generations to come.
