Wednesday, 16 Rabiulakhir 1447H / 08 October 2025 – Held as part of the International NCD Conference and Exhibition 2025 at the International Convention Centre, Berakas, the 14th ASEAN Centre for Active Ageing and Innovation (ACAI) Governing Board Meeting was officiated by Dr Hjh Rafidah binti Hj Gharif, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health.
The meeting commenced with a welcoming address by Dr Hjh Rafidah binti Hj Gharif, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health who highlighted that Brunei Darussalam is projected to transition from an ageing to an aged nation within the next decade.
The session also marked the introduction of the new Board Chair Dr. Opart Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.
Non-communicable diseases are a major challenge for older population in ASEAN, which together with mental health conditions are the leading cause of disability, morbidity and death. If uncurbed, these diseases will have a profound socioeconomic impact to the region, including Brunei Darussalam. It is imperative to strengthen public health actions across the life course, whilst strengthening health systems, social systems and ecosystem to ensure that people of ASEAN can age healthily, actively and productively.
In this regard, ACAI is placed strategically to provide leadership and support to progress active ageing and innovation in the ASEAN region. ACAI was established on 20 May 2020, dedicated to providing knowledge and innovation to support and implement policies aimed at enhancing the potential of older adults. It strives to build capacities and foster collaboration among ASEAN member states, international organisations, and relevant partners to promote and support healthy ageing.
The 14th ASEAN Centre for Active Ageing and Innovation (ACAI) Governing Board Meeting is chaired by Dr Opart Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand as ACAI Governing Board Thailand and attended by Governing Board Members and alternates from ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Secretariat, ACAI secretariat as well as Senior Officers from the Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam. The 14th ACAI Governing Board Meeting aims to present key organisational management matters for review, deliberation and approval by members.
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Date: 16 Rabiulakhir 1447H / 08 October 2025
Reference: KK/PR/3/1
