Behind every timely diagnosis and effective outbreak response is a strong laboratory system—yet sustaining these systems requires continuous collaboration and shared leadership. In response, the Department of Medical Sciences (DMSc), together with the Regional Public Health Laboratory (RPHL) Network Secretariat, co-hosted the RPHL Network Annual Meeting. The meeting brought together approximately 40 delegations, including representatives from member countries, the RPHL Network Foundation, and subject matter experts—reflecting the Network’s strengthened institutional structure and growing regional ownership.
The meeting was presided over by Dr. Sarawut Boonsuk, Director-General of DMSc and Permanent Co-Chair of the RPHL Network Steering Committee, alongside Dr. Watcharapong Kumla, Deputy Director-General of DMSc.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Sarawut reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to advancing sustainable laboratory systems across the region. He shared, “Thailand is honored to serve as Permanent Co-Chair of the Steering Committee, and we stand ready to work closely with all partners to advance a shared vision—one where our region is not only prepared, but truly future-ready.”
Jintana Sriwongsa, RPHL Network Regional Programme Director, underscored the importance of governance in sustaining the Network’s impact. “Good governance underpins the Network’s sustainability and strengthens its path toward self-reliance. This Annual Meeting provides an important platform for us to come together, align priorities, and move forward collectively” said Jintana.
A key outcome of the meeting was the endorsement of the Terms of Collaboration (ToC)—a shared governance framework that defines how the Network will operate, make decisions, and collaborate moving forward. This marks an important step toward a more formalized, sustainable, and institutionally anchored approach to regional laboratory system development.
Thailand will continue its role as Permanent Co-Chair, with Brunei Darussalam appointed as Co-Chair for the 2026–2028 term, reflecting strong regional leadership and commitment. Indonesia, the Philippines, Lao PDR, and Singapore have also confirmed their roles as Steering Committee members, further reinforcing an inclusive and representative governance structure.
Building on these outcomes, the RPHL Network will convene its first Steering Committee Meeting as a side event of the Annual Partnership Forum 2026, to be held in September 2026.
The RPHL Network’s ongoing initiatives are supported by the Global Fund through the Laboratory Systems Integration Fund (2024–2026).
