Bandar Seri Begawan: The Ministry of Health in Brunei Darussalam has announced its continued commitment to strengthening primary healthcare as the cornerstone of an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient health system. This announcement was made in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Basic Health Services Decentralisation. The Minister of Health, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, emphasized the need for a renewed focus on providing a stronger, more accessible, equitable, and customer-centric health system through effective and resilient innovations, including the use of digital technology and community empowerment.
According to Radio Television Brunei, the decentralisation policy of Basic Health Services, implemented in 2000 under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, marked a significant milestone in the development of public services in the country. This initiative aimed to make health services more accessible, affordable, and of good quality, regardless of location or individual background.
The infrastructure development based on the ‘One Stop Centre’ concept aligns with both the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, facilitating comprehensive basic health services for citizens and residents. This initiative has elevated Brunei Darussalam’s standing among World Health Organization countries with a high Universal Health Coverage Index. In line with “Wawasan Brunei 2035,” Basic Health Care will remain a major pillar of the healthcare system, proven to be cost-effective, effective, and safe, contributing to a healthier society and a higher quality of life for future generations.