(Bandar Seri Begawan, 8th) Brunei’s Minister of Health, Dato Isham, pointed out that the overall prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in Brunei is currently estimated at 22.6%, lower than the global average rate of 27%. Of these, 9.7% of patients have been diagnosed with vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.
He made these remarks yesterday during the opening ceremony of the 7th ASEAN Ophthalmology Society Congress (AOS 2025) held at the An-Naura Hall of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Dato Isham said that in 2014, RIPAS Hospital and its clinics screened a total of 7,700 patients; by 2017, the number of people screened had increased to 11,000, representing a 40% increase in screening coverage within three years.
“On this basis, the Ministry of Health has integrated AI-based screening tools into its services, including at non-ophthalmology clinics such as endocrinology, to ensure patients do not miss screenings during their routine check-ups.”
He stated that since October 2024, over 19,800 people have already been screened using AI technology, with a sensitivity of over 80% in detecting vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.
“Notably, about 17% of those screened were in the early stage of the disease, and about 5% to 6% required active treatment—patients who might not have been previously identified.”
Dato Isham pointed out that the introduction of AI has improved screening efficiency, shortened waiting times, and accelerated referral processes, allowing ophthalmologists to focus on sight-saving interventions.
“This innovation not only improves access to healthcare services but also speeds up diagnosis and helps prevent avoidable blindness nationwide.”
“This innovation not only improves access to healthcare services but also speeds up diagnosis and helps prevent avoidable blindness nationwide.”
He emphasized the importance of continuously strengthening cooperation, capacity building, and equitable access to healthcare in the ASEAN region.
“To move forward, we must strengthen regional and global collaboration, invest in human resource development, nurture a new generation of ophthalmologists, and embrace digital health innovation to ensure everyone can access vision-saving treatments.”
“To move forward, we must strengthen regional and global collaboration, invest in human resource development, nurture a new generation of ophthalmologists, and embrace digital health innovation to ensure everyone can access vision-saving treatments.”
President of Brunei Ophthalmology Society, Helena, said, “Sight is one of the most precious gifts in life, and protecting vision is both a responsibility and an honor.” She praised the Society’s ongoing efforts to improve eye health standards through professional development, innovation, and community programs.
The ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress is the region’s most influential professional event. With the theme “Vision Beyond Borders: Connecting Regional Expertise, Elevating Eye Care for All”, its aim is to promote the development of vision science, research, and clinical practice.
At the congress, Professor Ruben Lim Bon Siong, Head of Ophthalmology at University of the Philippines Manila and Director of Cornea Service at Philippine General Hospital, delivered a keynote speech titled “ASEAN Corneal Blindness: A Continuing Challenge”.
Concurrent meetings held included the 38th Singapore-Malaysia Joint Ophthalmology Meeting, the 11th Indochina Ocular Inflammation Study Group Meeting, and the inaugural NBD Allied Ophthalmic Professionals Seminar.
Scientific discussions during the congress covered a range of topics, including cataract and refractive surgery, retina and corneal diseases, ocular inflammation, AI diagnostics, diabetic retinopathy screening, trauma management, and community eye care.
Over the past decade, the National Eye Committee has made significant progress in expanding and strengthening eye care services. Since community eye care services were launched in 2011, coverage has expanded to all major government hospitals and four health centers in each district, improving accessibility and reducing patient waiting times.
Hosting the 2025 ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress highlights the National Eye Committee’s growing leadership in the regional ophthalmology field, as well as Brunei’s commitment to building a fair, innovative, and sustainable healthcare system.
The 7th ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress is an important milestone for the National Eye Committee in celebrating unity, progress, and the spirit of professional collaboration. Through regional cooperation and knowledge sharing, AOS 2025 aims to elevate the standards of eye care in ASEAN and strengthen the region’s ability to provide quality vision services for all.
The event was attended by Acting Permanent Secretary (Ministry of Health) Dr Rafidah, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Management) Mohd, Acting Director General of Medical and Health Services Dr Khalifah, as well as several senior officials and staff from the Ministry of Health.