In order to raise awareness about appropriate use of antibiotics in Malaysia, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry jointly organised the “Antibiotic Fun Run 2020” on 19th January 2020. Two OIE staff joined approximately 1,000 other participants at the event.
Each year, many countries arrange activities to promote awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These events highlight the global challenge we all face and give members of the public and other stakeholders the opportunity to learn more about how to use antimicrobials (including antibiotics against bacteria) more appropriately. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) promotes responsible and prudent use of antimicrobial agents in both terrestrial and aquatic animals. In doing so, we help to preserve their therapeutic efficacy and prolong their use in both animals and humans.
The development of resistance affects the efficacy of these medicines in both humans and animals. It is therefore extremely important for both human and animal health sectors to work together against AMR.
In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry jointly organised an “Antibiotic Fun Run 2020” on 19th January this year. The OIE is working at global and regional levels with our colleagues in the OIE/FAO/WHO Tripartite to tackle AMR using a One Health approach. It was therefore our pleasure to be a part of this national event in Malaysia where a similar multi-sectoral approach has been taken.
This was the second of these fun run events and proved very popular – with approximately 1,000 local people taking part. There was good engagement with members of the public from all ages and abilities, including many families with young children and some disabled participants. Before the “fun run” around the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS), there was a Zumba warm-up. Organisers also had a colouring competition for children and a prize draw. Participants who completed the “fun run” (at whatever pace!) were awarded a goody bag, breakfast and a well-deserved medal to commemorate the event. Mascots from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) and Ministry of Health were present, and a large inflatable medical capsule encouraged participants to take photos, especially young children. There was a Facebook cut out frame to boost social media involvement, which proved popular for selfie-lovers.
Large posters outlined the ministerial progress on AMR control. Key staff from the ministries and associated departments shared discussions with the OIE staff about AMR over breakfast. Both ministers (Dr Dzulkefly bin Ahmad, Honourable Minister of Health and Mr Salahuddin bin Ayub, Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry) made plenary presentations to all participants, thanking them for their support and stressing the importance of using antibiotics wisely. Press coverage ensured that their message was also shared with others who hadn’t taken part in the event. We look forward to future similar events, both in Malaysia and other countries.
