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MIRI, 16 Oct: Cross-border simulation training is important in strengthening the readiness of ASEAN countries to face biological threats through information sharing and coordination between agencies.
Deputy Health Minister, Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib said the biological threat could spread rapidly and affect not only public health but also national security, animal health, food security and the environment.
"Biological incidents can develop or mutate rapidly and have consequences beyond public health, including national security, animal health, food security, the environment as well as public confidence", he said.
He said this while addressing the inaugural closing ceremony of ASEAN Emergency Operations Centers Network Activities: National Level Cross-Border Simulation Miri 2026 Training here today.
He added that the upcoming simulation training should include elements of surprise, including infectious individual scenarios showing more serious symptoms than expected to test agency preparedness for a real emergency.
"The goal is not to complicate the simulation, but to prepare us for real situations that are not necessarily ideal", he said.
Meanwhile, he stressed the need to strengthen the health surveillance system and communication channels between agencies to ensure that information can be delivered quickly and action coordinated effectively.
"Our surveillance system must be interconnected, liaison officers should know who to contact and communication channels must continue to operate during emergencies", he said.
According to him, the results of the training evaluation should be used to identify and address weaknesses in terms of laboratory capacity, equipment supply, human resources as well as communication systems.
"Real readiness comes from continuous training, evaluation and improvement. In emergencies, action can be done more quickly when we know who to contact, how to communicate and how the other party operates", he said. - TVS
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