BUTTERWORTH: The Penang Barisan Nasional Convention 2024 today passed a resolution to establish the Asean Foundation as a legacy for Malaysia's upcoming Asean chairmanship next year.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the resolution would be submitted for the consideration of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Asean Foundation is proposed as an entity to address issues such as disasters, health, and organ transplants.
"Not all existing issues need to be resolved through inter-government solutions.
"The Asean Foundation can raise funds through donations from Asean countries to be used by its members.
"With Malaysia assuming the chair for Asean next year, I will bring this resolution for the consideration of the prime minister.
"This can serve as a legacy for the country," he told reporters after launching the Penang BN Convention 2024 here today.
Zahid said the proposal would need the approval of Asean member countries.
He added that the Asean Foundation could manage matters related to organ transplants, whether in terms of funding or the participation of member countries in donating organs, for the collective benefit of Asean.
"Additionally, the funds can also be used for scholarships for people from across Asean countries to further their studies," he added.
With Malaysia set to assume the Asean chairmanship in 2025, Anwar said the country was committed to enhancing the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) and spearheading efforts to establish more efficient and integrated regulatory frameworks within the healthcare system in the region.
These efforts included ensuring the safety of medical devices, strengthening patient care systems, improving infrastructure, and adopting modern technology in treatments.