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This summary draws from an interview featured on PharmaBoardroom. Read the full discussion here.
Malaria is not only preventable and treatable, but can also be eliminated, as demonstrated by 40 countries around the world that have achieved malaria-free status. The Asia Pacific region has made remarkable strides in reducing malaria burden, with countries such as China and Sri Lanka having achieved malaria-free status. Yet, the path to achieving the 2030 elimination goal will require more than just sustained action alone, but also strong political will, strategic investment, and cross-sector collaboration.
In an interview with PharmaBoardroom, Dr. Sarthak Das, Chief Executive Officer of APLMA, shared his perspectives and insights on malaria across the Asia Pacific region. He highlighted that despite significant progress, malaria remains heavily concentrated in five out of the 22 countries that APLMA supports — Afghanistan, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Papua New Guinea — where 91% of all cases occur. At the same time, near-elimination countries in the region like Bhutan and Timor-Leste demonstrated that malaria elimination could be a reality in the near future, though the importance of vigilance against cross-border transmission and the need for resilient health systems that can withstand shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic remain central to sustaining elimination gains and preventing resurgence.
A growing focus within the broader malaria elimination agenda is the adoption of a whole-of-government approach, where inter-agency coordination including private sector engagement, will be key. Dr. Das noted that private sector contributions across the supply chain, treatment ,and vaccine innovation are valuable, particualrly when streamlined with existing national and local government strategies. While existing tools remain effective, challenges persist in the deployment of next-generation treatment in Asia Pacific, such as the RTS,S vaccine, primarily due to a gap in locally-generated evidence and health system readiness.
Dr. Das emphasized that malaria elimination must remain a priority as the region moves closer to 2030. Importantly, progress must not give way to complacency. Sustained political commitment, coordinated cross‑border action, community empowerment, and resilient health systems underpinned by strong surveillance and data management are imperative to keep the region on track towards achieving malaria elimination.
