Regional Public Health Laboratory Network

20/04/2026

Papua New Guinea: Turning plans into action for stronger laboratory systems.

Following the SWOT analysis, Papua New Guinea’s Thematic Working Group has defined a clear Vision, Mission, and strategic priorities to strengthen its laboratory system. Through close collaboration between PNG’s TWG, RPHL Network Subject Matter Experts, and the Secretariat, this milestone ensures the plan is both nationally grounded and aligned with international standards.

From validation to stakeholder engagement and continuous collaboration, this marks a powerful step forward in building a resilient and sustainable laboratory system—together.

16/04/2026

Explore how the NLSP is driving impact—from strengthening ownership to unlocking regional collaboration and resources.

Papua New Guinea is taking an important step forward. As the country develops its first National Laboratory Strategic Plan (NLSP), it is laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient laboratory systems.

Why does NLSP matter?

14/04/2026

Meet Our Mentors for the Biorisk Management Twinning Programme

In the evolving landscape of biorisk management (BRM), collaboration is essential—and our mentors from partner institutions are at the heart of making it work.

Bringing together expertise from across the region, these professionals are guiding the next generation of laboratory leaders through hands-on mentorship, supporting the development and implementation of biorisk management solutions within the mentees’ institutions.

In collaboration with regional and international partners, the second cohort of the BRM Twinning Programme will kick off from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore.

09/04/2026

Papua New Guinea has taken a significant step by conducting a SWOT Analysis Workshop for the development of its first National Laboratory Strategic Plan (NLSP) 2026–2030 — a national strategic roadmap toward building a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable laboratory system for its people. The workshop brought together approximately 30 participants, representing key stakeholders across the laboratory system, and was presided over by Mr. Ken Wai, Deputy Secretary for Public Health at the National Department of Health.

This milestone is made even more meaningful through the peer-to-peer support of the RPHL Network, led by the RPHL Network Secretariat and supported by Subject Matter Experts from Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Supported by The Global Fund through the Laboratory Systems Integration Fund, the RPHL Network has contributed to the development of NLSPs in seven countries, including Papua New Guinea.

07/04/2026

When disease outbreaks occur, public health laboratories are the first line of defense—detecting threats early and guiding effective responses.

On World Health Day 2026, under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science,” the RPHL Network stands alongside countries and partners to strengthen the laboratory systems that communities rely on every day. Behind every test result is a person, a family, and a decision that can shape the course of care. Reliable and timely diagnostics help ensure that the right actions are taken at the right time.

Across the Asia-Pacific region, the RPHL Network supports countries by building national capacity and fostering a sustainable pool of subject matter experts (SMEs). By connecting expertise and sharing knowledge, the Network enables countries to respond faster, collaborate more effectively, and better protect their populations from emerging health threats.

Together, we remain committed to advancing resilient laboratory systems that support healthier lives and a safer future for all.

The RPHL Network’s ongoing initiatives are supported by The Global Fund through the Laboratory Systems Integration Fund (2024-2026).

02/04/2026

The RPHL Network proudly announces its first steering committee for the 2026–2028.

The newly formed Committee comprises:
- Thailand – Permanent Co-Chair
- Brunei Darussalam – Co-Chair
- Indonesia, Singapore, Lao PDR, and the Philippines – Members

As part of the Network’s governance structure, the Steering Committee works closely with the Secretariat to guide the strategic direction of the RPHL Network. The Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences (Thailand) serves as a permanent member, while other members rotate every two years—ensuring both continuity and inclusive regional representation across the member countries.

Together, this leadership reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable, regionally driven public health laboratory systems in the Asia-Pacific.

Learn more at https://therphl.net/about-us/terms-of-collaboration/

01/04/2026

The excited to collaborate with global partners at the Global Health Security Conference 2026!

Together with CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) and the International Federation of Biosafety Associations, we will co-host a side event on advancing laboratory biorisk management through - supporting stronger health security beyond the region.

Our Regional Programme Director, Jintana Sriwongsa, will be joining as one of the speakers, sharing insights on strengthening laboratory systems.

🎤 Keynote Speaker Announcement -

We are pleased to announce Dr Claire J Standley, MSc PhD as a keynote speaker at the Global Health Security Conference 2026!

Dr Standley leads global biosecurity capacity strengthening and innovation efforts at CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) and serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor with the Center for Global Health Science and Security.

With extensive experience spanning academia, global policy, and scientific leadership, including previous roles at George Washington University and as an AAAS Science & Technology Fellow with the U.S. Department of State - Dr Standley brings deep expertise in strengthening preparedness systems worldwide.

Her work continues to shape international dialogue on biosecurity, One Health collaboration, and epidemic preparedness.

30/03/2026

RPHL Network fosters good governance and regional leadership to build sustainable laboratory systems for timely diagnosis and effective outbreak response across the Asia-Pacific, advancing regional collaboration, capacity building, and coordinated action among member countries.

Click below to read more.

RPHL Network Fosters Good Governance and Regional Leadership for Sustainable Public Health Laboratory Network 30 March 202630 March 2026Malina2026, Workshop Number of Visitors : 2 Behind every timely diagnosis and effective outbreak response is a strong laboratory system—yet sustaining these syste...

26/03/2026

Better treatments are built on continuous innovation. 🧬

As part of the RPHL Network Annual Meeting, a special side event—“Empowering the Future of Medicine”—was co-hosted with the Department of Medical Sciences and the Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Centre of Thailand.

The event introduced Thailand’s new ATMP production and quality control center, designed to meet world-class standards and support the development of cell therapy, gene therapy, and tissue engineering—advancing new treatment approaches for complex diseases.

The session also provided an opportunity for regional exchange, allowing RPHL Network member countries to share experiences and gain insights into advancing innovation, infrastructure, and quality systems for the future.

25/03/2026

25/03/2026

Strong laboratory networks are essential for early detection and rapid response to health threats—yet they can only thrive with strong governance.

The RPHL Network Foundation has established a strengthened governance structure to guide its next phase of growth—anchored in shared leadership, accountability, and regional ownership. As part of this, among the 14 member countries, Thailand continues its role as Permanent Chair, with Brunei Darussalam appointed as Co-Chair for the 2026–2028 term. Indonesia, the Philippines, Lao PDR, and Singapore have also confirmed their roles as Steering Committee members, reinforcing an inclusive and representative structure.

Demonstrating this commitment, the meeting was presided over by Dr. Sarawut Boonsuk, Director-General, alongside Dr. Watcharapong Kumla, Deputy Director-General, reaffirming Thailand DMSc’s leadership in strengthening regional public health laboratory systems.

Together, we are building a more connected, self-reliant Network.