Manila, Philippines – July 16, 2025
The National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) successfully organized a pivotal regional meeting focused on advancing lung health initiatives across the ASEAN region. The summit, held at the prestigious Peninsula Manila, brought together leading oncologists, public health experts, and civil society organizations to have a dialogue, and Malaysia shared a comprehensive action plan for addressing lung cancer and respiratory health challenges in Southeast Asia.
Distinguished Attendees
The meeting was graced by prominent figures in the regional cancer care community, including:
- Asec. Maylene Beltran, Former Assistant Secretary of the Department of Health
- Dr. Corazon Ngelangel, President of the Philippine Cancer Society
- Dr. Herdee Gloriane C. Luna, Executive Action Oncology Manager
- Representatives from various ASEAN member nations, including Singapore and Thailand
- Senior officials from the Malaysian Ministry of Health's Disease Control Division
- Healthy Pilipinas Alliance representatives
Malaysia's Lung Health Initiative 2025-2030
A central focus of the summit was the presentation of Malaysia's ambitious Lung Health Initiative 2025-2030, a comprehensive roadmap developed by the Ministry of Health's Disease Control Division. The initiative outlines a strategic and implementation plan addressing key areas:
Primary Focus Areas:
- Lung Cancer prevention and treatment
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management
- Asthma care and control
- Tuberculosis elimination efforts
- Occupational Lung Diseases Prevention
Strategic Approaches:
- Strengthening Primary Healthcare through an integrated lung health approach
- Risk Factor Control focusing on:
- Tobacco control and smoking cessation programs
- Environmental exposure reduction
- Occupational exposure management
- Enhanced Screening Programs for early detection
- Improved Diagnosis & Treatment capabilities across the region
ASEAN Regional Collaboration Framework
The meeting emphasized the critical importance of regional cooperation in addressing lung health challenges. Participants discussed the ASEAN Action Plan for Lung Health, which aims to implement lung health policies across member nations through a coordinated approach.
Key discussion points included:
- Harmonizing lung health policies across ASEAN countries
- Sharing best practices in cancer prevention and treatment
- Establishing regional screening protocols
- Coordinating research and data collection efforts
WHO Lung Health Resolution
The summit also addressed the Lung Health Resolution Concept recently adopted by the World Health Organization during the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly. The resolution calls for a unified response through collaboration among:
- Governments at the national and local levels
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and advocacy groups
- Primary Healthcare Providers and medical professionals
- Private Sector stakeholders
The resolution emphasizes ensuring population needs are met sustainably and inclusively, improving patient-centered care, and transforming healthcare services by advancing health promotion and reinforcing disease prevention efforts.
NCD Malaysia's Role
The meeting highlighted the important work of NCD Malaysia, a coalition of civil society organizations working to empower and support people living with non-communicable diseases. Their participation underscored the vital role of patient advocacy groups in shaping comprehensive lung health policies.
Looking Forward
The Peninsula Manila summit represents a significant milestone in ASEAN's collective effort to address the growing burden of lung diseases in the region. With lung cancer rates continuing to rise across Southeast Asia, initiatives like Malaysia's 2025-2030 roadmap and enhanced regional cooperation frameworks are essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing disease burden.
The meeting concluded with commitments from participating nations to strengthen their lung health programs and enhance cross-border collaboration in research, treatment protocols, and prevention strategies. Follow-up meetings are planned to monitor progress and further develop the regional action plan.
About the Organizers
The National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) has been at the forefront of cancer prevention, education, and patient support since its establishment. As a leading civil society organization in the region, NCSM continues to play a crucial role in advancing cancer care policies and fostering international collaboration.
The Philippine Cancer Society, represented by Dr. Corazon Ngelangel, has been instrumental in cancer control efforts in the Philippines and serves as a key partner in regional health initiatives.
This landmark meeting at Peninsula Manila represents a crucial step toward a more coordinated, effective response to lung health challenges across the ASEAN region, with the potential to save countless lives through improved prevention, early detection, and treatment programs.
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