Political leadership and commitment play a critical role in Tobacco control. Building and enhancing national and sub-national capacities for tobacco control in every country is an urgent priority and one of the most significant measures required to effectively combat the tobacco epidemic. Strong sub-national leadership will ensure effective measures of tobacco control by identifying local solutions to local problems in the region.

APCAT (Asia Pacific Cities Alliance for Tobacco Control and NCDs Prevention) aims to build a strong tobacco and NCDs control programme through political commitments, new partnership opportunities, sustainable and effective utilization of the resources, and stronger public health system performance and outcomes.

The 3rd Summit of AP-CAT was held in Singapore from the 4th to the 6th of December 2018 in Singapore. A total of 12 countries participated in 2018 growing from 10 in 2017 and before that 9, in 2016. The host country, Singapore, offered a solid example of how effective and well-enforced tobacco control laws can impact public health nationwide. The summit was opened by Mr Edwin Tong, Senior Minister of State for Health.

“ I am encouraged by the many officials and healthcare experts present this evening, and would like to thank the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease for bringing together this wealth of experience in regional tobacco control. This Summit is a good opportunity for everyone to share their insights and perspectives on our common fight against tobacco use, and bring about a reduction in the non-communicable disease burden in our respective countries. I am confident that together, we will stand united to improve the health of our people.”

~ MR EDWIN TONG, SENIOR MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH, read the full speech here