ASEAN member states have reaffirmed their collective commitment to strengthen regional drug security and self-reliance through the operationalisation of the ASEAN Drug Security and Self-Reliance (ADSSR) Framework.
In a joint statement, leaders of these states pledged to enhance access to safe, affordable and quality medicines across South-East Asia.
Building on progress since the adoption of the ADSSR strategy in 2022, they emphasised the importance of aligning pharmaceutical regulations, improving supply chain resilience and promoting joint procurement and production of essential medicines — especially during public health emergencies.
The framework, grounded in the ASEAN Post-2015 Health Development Agenda, prioritises the development and distribution of life-saving and non-commercially viable medicines, including orphan drugs and antidotes.
It also supports regional collaboration on research, manufacturing and a possible pooled procurement system to boost affordability and accessibility.
“We acknowledge significant disparities in pharmaceutical capacities among member states and call for enhanced information-sharing and coordination,” the statement reads.
The Covid-19 pandemic, they noted, highlighted the urgent need for robust regional mechanisms to ensure universal health coverage and uninterrupted drug supplies.
The declaration tasks ASEAN health ministers with leading the implementation of the ADSSR, in coordination with other ASEAN bodies and stakeholders, and calls for regular monitoring and evaluation to measure progress.
This renewed commitment reinforces ASEAN’s ambition to become a globally recognised hub for pharmaceutical resilience and healthcare cooperation.
The joint statement came after the conclusion of the 46th ASEAN Summit, which took place on May 26 and 27, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) following Malaysia’s chairmanship this year.
It also featured the second ASEAN- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit.
The 46th ASEAN Summit’s theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” reflects Malaysia’s aspirations to shape a united and prosperous ASEAN. This year marks the country’s fifth chairmanship. — TMR
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