Bali
Leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region gathered in Bali for the 9th Asia-Pacific Leaders’ Summit on Malaria Elimination, calling for urgent cooperation and solidarity to fight the deadly disease. The summit, themed “Unity in Action, Towards Zero Malaria”, highlighted the need for faster action amid funding cuts and growing health challenges.
Sarthak Das, head of the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance, stressed the importance of unity during global crises. “Time is the most precious commodity,” he said, urging countries to stay committed despite ongoing conflict, climate issues, and financial pressure.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports over 260 million malaria cases globally, with 600,000 deaths yearly — most being children under five.
Experts shared new innovations and strategies for malaria control. Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund, warned that the region risks losing its progress if action and funding fall behind. “We’re at a moment of reckoning,” he said, pointing to the dangers of backsliding.
The summit brought together 250 participants from 23 countries, including Health Ministers from Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, Pakistan, Laos, and Indonesia. All emphasized the urgency of cross-border partnerships to end malaria.
Malaria, a mosquito-borne disease, is curable and preventable. However, if untreated, it can become deadly quickly. Those most at risk include children, pregnant women, and people with HIV.
Symptoms start with fever and chills but can quickly worsen. Mosquito prevention, medicine, and fast treatment are key to survival.
With climate change and shrinking aid worsening the fight, leaders urged long-term dedication to protect millions at risk and reach the goal of zero malaria.
