Malaria incidence in the Western Pacific Region between 2000 and 2021 has been variable where malaria remains a public health concern in several countries, including Cambodia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Viet Nam, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Republic of Korea and Malaysia.

China was certified by WHO as malaria free in 2021 and Malaysia has maintained zero indigenous cases of all malaria species except Plasmodium knowlesi (a zoonotic malaria) for which about 3000 cases are reported annually. The estimated number of malaria cases in the Region peaked at over 2.8 million in 2000 and then steadily declined to a low of approximately 1.4 million in 2021. However, some countries reported a recent increase in malaria cases. Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands account for over 90% of all malaria in the Region. While Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam have made great progress towards malaria elimination, showing a reduction of over 45% of falciparum malaria from 2018 to 2021.

Continued progress towards malaria elimination requires continued investment in malaria prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Additionally, programmes should focus on reaching the unreached and high-risk populations and forest goers in the Greater Mekong Subregion, scaling up malaria surveillance systems, and building stronger health systems. While the Region faces challenges, the collective efforts of governments, health agencies, and the private sector can lead to a malaria-free future.

Also see: World Malaria Day 2023