MIRI (Dec 6): Integrated development approaches that link public health with sustainable urban planning are essential to building resilient and inclusive communities, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He highlighted that modern challenges require government agencies, local councils, and academic institutions to work closely to shape healthier living environments.

“That is why our ministry is pursuing integrated approaches that combine health promotion with green infrastructure, sustainable housing, and climate-resilient urban design.

“We are strengthening partnerships between local councils, universities, and civil society organisations to create cities and towns that promote wellness, inclusivity, and sustainability,” he said in a speech read by Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii during the GlobeSync: Community Research & Sustainability Conference (GlobeCoReS 2025) Gala Dinner here on Friday.

According to Dr Sim, these efforts reflect the Sarawak government’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which places health, housing, and local governance at the core of long-term sustainable development.

Dr Sim noted that health outcomes are closely linked to living conditions, access to sanitation, infrastructure quality, and a sense of belonging within the community.

“Through PCDS 2030, we are working to build a Sarawak that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable, where every citizen can enjoy a good quality of life,” he added.

He also praised Curtin University Malaysia for hosting GlobeCoReS 2025 alongside the inaugural Global Symposium on Ageing and Longevity (GSAL 2025), noting its importance amid regional demographic shifts.

“As people live longer, the question is not only about extending life expectancy, but ensuring the added years are healthier, productive, and dignified,” he said.

Dr Sim highlighted the establishment of the GlobeSync Consortium, a new international alliance focused on indigenous empowerment, sustainable cities, and public health innovation, as a demonstration of the power of collaboration in addressing sustainability challenges.

Meanwhile, Curtin Malaysia deputy pro vice-chancellor Prof Tuong-Thuy Vu noted that GlobeCoReS has evolved into one of the region’s most vibrant hubs for community-centred research and sustainable discourse.

Representing Curtin Malaysia pro vice-chancellor Prof Vincent Lee, he said the three-day event of keynotes, workshops, community engagements, and research presentations showcased the power of partnership in translating evidence into action.

Major milestones during GlobeCoReS 2025 included the formalisation of the GlobeSync Consortium and the launch of the GSAL.

Tuong commended the organising committee led by Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences dean Prof Roy Rillera Marzo for their ‘extraordinary and tireless’ efforts in elevating the conference’s impact.

Awards recognising outstanding papers, posters, speakers, and volunteers were also presented during the gala dinner.