Climate Change Research
Our unit has conducted comprehensive modelling and risk assessment studies to evaluate the impact of climate change on public health. This includes examining the effects of air pollution and temperature variations on cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, as well as modelling the risk of diseases and outbreaks. Additionally, we have initiated vulnerability studies to assess community preparedness for climate-related health risks. Currently, an ongoing survey is being conducted across five small islands in Malaysia, and a research project focusing on healthcare vulnerability is also in development.
Collaborative Engagements
The CC Unit recognizes that addressing the complex and interconnected challenges posed by climate change and its impact on health requires collaboration across multiple sectors. To this end, we actively engage with a diverse range of government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector partners that share a commitment to advancing climate-health research. These partnerships enable us to leverage resources, share expertise, and implement evidence-based strategies that can effectively address the pressing health risks associated with climate change.
Furthermore, in our pursuit of expanding our research horizons and enhancing our technical capabilities, we are actively seeking international collaborations. By collaborating with global institutions and experts, we aim to access advanced research methodologies, innovative technologies, and a wealth of knowledge that will enhance our capacity to develop effective, scalable solutions. Through these partnerships, we seek to contribute to the global conversation on climate change and health, ensuring that our solutions are grounded in the best available evidence and aligned with international best practices.
Consultation Services
The establishment of the CC Unit was a pivotal step in ensuring that cutting-edge scientific research, effective policy development, and timely public health responses are aligned to tackle the evolving health risks linked to climate change. Through this specialized unit, EHRC aims to drive evidence-based solutions, create adaptive strategies to mitigate health risks, and facilitate initiatives that bridge the gap between climate science and public health. Our work underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, engaging not only health professionals but also environmental scientists, policymakers, and communities, to enhance resilience within both healthcare systems and the broader population in the face of climate change.
The focus and expertise of the CC Unit in climate change and health have enabled us to provide valuable input at both national and international levels. We are an active and essential member of the working group responsible for the public health chapter of Malaysia's National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Additionally, our members contribute to several other technical working groups addressing environmental and health policies and issues.
Training and Education
Our unit is dedicated to sharing knowledge and fostering expertise in the area of climate change and health. Through workshops and seminars, we equip healthcare and other relevant professionals with necessary tools and insights, and we also raise awareness among the public about the health implications of climate change.
Workshops that we have organised include topics such as Geographic Information System (GIS) and time series analysis. Knowledge sharing platforms include SEAMEO Tropmed Malaysia Webinar Series and under National Environmental Health Action Plan (NEHAP) Technical Working Group (TWG) 5 series of talks on the topic of climate change.
