AAOEH Business Meeting and PCOM 47th National Annual Convention
The Asian Association of Occupational and Environmental Health (AAOEH) continues to solidify its roadmap for the 2023–2026 term. On 18 March 2026, the AAOEH General Committee convened for its 3rd Business Meeting, hosted at the historic Manila Hotel, Philippines.
This pivotal meeting was conducted in a hybrid format, facilitated by the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine (PCOM) in conjunction with their 47th National Annual Convention. The gathering served as a vital touchpoint for regional leaders to refine the association’s governance and recognize excellence within the field.
Leadership and Global Participation
The meeting saw a robust turnout of regional experts dedicated to advancing Occupational Health (OH) standards across Asia.
In-person attendees included:
- Dr. Abu Hasan Samad: AAOEH and AOEMM President
- Dr. Sathya Subramaniam: AAOEH Secretary-General and AOEMM Honorary Secretary
- Dr. Ricardo Balagot: AAOEH Country Representative (Philippines)
- Dr. Phil Pangilinan: AAOEH Council Member
AAOEH Country Representatives joining via virtual platform (Zoom):
- Dr. Hitesh M. Shingala (India), Dr. Agustina Puspitasari (Indonesia), Dr. Adul Bandhukul (Thailand), Prof. Dr. Malcolm Sim (Australia), Dr. Alice Lai (Brunei), A/Prof. Dr. Gan Wee Hoe (Singapore), and Prof. Dr. Chen-Chang Yang (Taiwan).
The session also welcomed distinguished observers, including Dr. Ade Mutiara (Indonesia), Dr. Rifka Aini (Indonesia), Dr. Tori Yoshikawa (Japan), and Dr. Tomohiro Ishimaru (Japan), alongside PCOM Past President Dr. Anna Ria Fajardo and most of the PCOM Chapter Presidents.
Evolving the AAOEH Constitution
A primary focus of the meeting was ensuring the AAOEH remains inclusive and representative of the diverse OH landscape in Asia. A/Prof. Dr. Gan Wee Hoe from Singapore presented a significant proposal to amend the AAOEH Constitution, suggesting that the association allow up to two federated members per country.
This amendment recognizes that several nations possess multiple established organizations that effectively represent the majority of their OM/OH practitioners. By expanding membership capacity, AAOEH aims to foster a more collaborative and comprehensive professional network. The proposal was met with unanimous endorsement by the AAOEH Committee.
Celebrating Excellence: The AAOEH Awards Committee
In a landmark move for the association, the AAOEH Awards Committee was formally established. Led by Dr. Anna Ria Fajardo, the committee includes Dr. Ade Mutiara, A/Prof. Dr. Gan Wee Hoe, Prof. Dr. Naesinee Chaiear (Thailand), and Dr. Tomohiro Ishimaru.
The committee is tasked with defining the criteria and nominating a new prestigious award designed to honor individuals who have made transformative contributions to Occupational Health in Asia. The inaugural award is slated to be presented during the 24th Asian Congress on Occupational Health (ACOH 2026) in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Insights from the PCOM National Convention
The spirit of collaboration extended into the PCOM National Convention, where AOEMM President Dr. Abu Hasan Samad delivered a compelling keynote: “Beyond Borders: Building a Unified Platform for Regional OSH Excellence – SEA and Asia Collaboration for Occupational Safety & Health.”
Dr. Abu Hasan emphasized that the future of OSH lies in shared knowledge and unified standards. A highlight of his address was the introduction of the South-East Asian Occupational and Environmental Network (SEA-OEMNet). This burgeoning organization is set to officially sign its Constitution at ACOH 2026, creating a dedicated platform for SEA OH organizations to harmonize efforts and elevate regional standards.
Looking Ahead to ACOH 2026
The AOEMM also maintained a vibrant promotional booth throughout the convention, drawing significant interest from PCOM members including junior OH doctors and students. The energy in Manila was palpable, and we look forward to a strong Philippine delegation joining us in Sarawak.
The next AAOEH Business Meeting #4 will be hosted by AOEMM on 13 June 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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