Health Promotion Blueprint 2011 - 2015.

The Health Promotion Blueprint 2011 – 2015 is a 5-year comprehensive document that rationalizes and outlines the key directions for the promotion of healthy living for the population of Brunei Darussalam. It has been developed in line with the Ministry of Health’s Strategic Plan and aims to fulfill one of the three aims outlined in Brunei Darussalam’s National Vision for 2035, that is, for the country to be recognized for its quality of life. The Blueprint sets out several strategic objectives and measures which directly (i) address the prevention and control of NCDs and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle in the short to medium term, and (ii) identify many strategic programs and initiatives which address the main risk factors for NCDs. The progress made to increase the standards of living in Brunei Darussalam and to ensure the health and well-being of the population had, among its results, that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are now the main disease burden in the country and so efforts must now be made to address this rising problem through disease prevention and health promotion. The document highlights the importance of a comprehensive, integrated, multi-sectoral approach at all levels in addressing the issue effectively and enhances various existing actions and measures to encourage and promote healthy eating and physical activity as well as reduce smoking and obesity among Bruneians.
In the Blueprint, four strategic objectives have been identified, namely (1) establishing and strengthening health in all policies across Government to be strategically aligned and more inclusive of health and well-being outcomes; (2) developing effective, quality, and innovative health promotion programs, particularly to address risk factors for NCDs, such as reduce tobacco use and promote healthy settings; (3) enhancing inter-sectoral collaboration and partnership between Government agencies, NGOs, private sector, civil societies, and communities in the implementation of specific initiatives; (4) developing and enhancing skills and competencies in health promotion.
Particularly relevant is the role of correct nutrition and healthy food habits among the population. In this regard, the document highlights the necessity of (i) reviewing and revising National Dietary Guidelines (NDG) and developing Brunei Darussalam’s Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA); (ii) revising and reviewing National Infant & Young Child Feeding Programme; (iii) advocating and facilitating reduction of consumption of salt, sugar and fat in the population; (iv) developing food standards; (v) enforcing nutrition labelling, including legislation; (vi) collaborating with hawkers, restaurants, supermarkets and grocery stores on Healthy Food Choice Programme; (vii) encouraging the availability of healthy food choices and portion sizes.