It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 1st Rabies in Asia (RIA) Conference, held in conjunction with the 5th Rabies in Borneo (RIB) Conference 2026, taking place in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
With the theme “One Health for Rabies Elimination Across the ASEAN Region: Collaboration Across Borders”, this conference reflects our shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and advancing coordinated action towards a rabies-free future.
Rabies remains one of the most serious yet preventable zoonotic diseases, affecting communities across Asia and beyond. While significant progress has been made in rabies prevention and control, the continued occurrence of cases reminds us that sustained commitment, strong collaboration and coordinated action are essential. As rabies does not recognise geographical or administrative boundaries, our response must extend beyond borders and bring together countries, sectors and communities.
The RIA 2026 and RIB 2026 provide an important platform for veterinarians, medical professionals, public health experts, researchers, policymakers, animal health practitioners and other stakeholders to come together, share knowledge and exchange experiences. More importantly, the conferences seek to strengthen partnerships and encourage practical collaboration in addressing the challenges of rabies prevention and elimination across the ASEAN region.
One Health at the heart of rabies elimination
Effective rabies elimination requires close coordination between animal health, human health, public health, environmental sectors, policymakers and communities.
A One Health approach is at the heart of this effort. Effective rabies elimination requires close coordination between animal health, human health, public health, environmental sectors, policymakers and communities. It also requires stronger cross-border collaboration, particularly in areas where the movement of people and animals creates shared challenges and where coordinated surveillance, vaccination, prevention and response are essential.
As Sarawak continues to strengthen its efforts towards rabies elimination, we recognise the importance of working closely with our neighbouring states and countries. The experience gained through rabies control efforts in Borneo provides valuable lessons that can contribute to broader regional strategies, while collaboration across ASEAN can help us learn from one another and strengthen our collective capacity.
I hope RIA 2026 and RIB 2026 will serve as more than a platform for scientific discussion. May it be a catalyst for stronger partnerships, greater knowledge exchange and concrete actions that transcend borders. Together, through a shared One Health commitment, we can move closer towards the goal of rabies elimination across ASEAN and a rabies-free Borneo.
On behalf of the Organising Committee, I warmly welcome all delegates, speakers, exhibitors, partners and participants to Kuching, Sarawak. I encourage you to make the most of this opportunity to learn, connect and collaborate as we work together towards a safer and healthier future for our communities.
I look forward to welcoming you to RIA 2026 and RIB 2026.