Opening Speech by CEO (HSA) on MOU Signing Between Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and Vietnam Metrology Institute (VMI)

Good afternoon, Dr Ngo Thi Ngoc Ha, Director of the Vietnam Metrology Institute, distinguished colleagues from VMI, and my fellow HSA team members. I am Adj Assoc Prof (Dr) Raymond Chua, the Chief Executive Officer of Health Sciences Authority (HSA), Singapore.

HSA’s Commitment to Excellence in Chemical Metrology

2          Today marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the HSA and VMI. As we formalise our partnership, I’m reminded of one Vietnamese proverb: “Một cây làm chẳng nên non, ba cây chụm lại nên hòn núi cao,” which translates to “One tree alone cannot make a mountain; three trees together can make a high mountain.”  This wisdom underscores the importance of teamwork and collective effort in achieving great accomplishments, reflecting the very essence of our MOU signing today.

3          At HSA, we take pride in our role as Singapore’s designated institute for Chemical Metrology since 2008. Over the years, we have built a reputation for leadership in critical areas such as food safety, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals in the field of metrology. Our Chemical Metrology Laboratory plays an essential role in supporting local chemical testing and clinical laboratories, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and adherence to the highest standards.

4          HSA provides Certified Reference Materials, conducts Proficiency Testing programmes, and manages External Quality Assessment Programmes that help clinical laboratories maintain exceptional standards of accuracy. Beyond these services, our commitment to international standards and active participation in key global metrology organisations ensure that our work remains aligned with global benchmarks and best practices.

Long-standing Partnership with Vietnam Metrology Institute

5          Our longstanding collaboration with VMI highlights the solid foundation of our partnership. In 2015, we had the pleasure of hosting VMI’s Metrologist, Mr Bui Viet Vuong, for an attachment training course in our Chemical Metrology Laboratory. Over two months, Mr Vuong worked on high order inorganic measurements for toxic metals alongside our senior Scientists, reflecting our commitment to capacity building and technical exchange.

6          In 2017, VMI’s Metrologist, Mr Truong Chinh Nguyen, attended a workshop on the production of certified reference materials conducted by HSA. This initiative reinforced our collective goal of enhancing metrological traceability to high quality reference standards. Most recently, in 2023 and 2024, VMI’s Acting Laboratory Head, Dr Tuan Pham Anh, also participated in the APEC Water Quality Workshop in Kuala Lumpur, followed by a workshop on ISO standards for proficiency testing provision in Singapore, hosted by HSA, further strengthening our collaboration in addressing regional quality infrastructure for our region.

7          Another key milestone in our relationship is VMI’s participation in the Asia Pacific Metrology Programme’s public health project commencing in the coming months. Together with HSA and over ten other institutes, we will be working with VMI to reach out to Vietnam’s clinical laboratories. This initiative exemplifies our shared commitment to improving clinical outcomes for non-communicable diseases for patients.

Significance of HSA-VMI Memorandum of Understanding

8          VMI has long been a pillar of Vietnam’s measurement standards system and has played a critical role in the country’s industrial and scientific development. Since becoming a full member of the Asia Pacific Metrology Programme in 1992 and an associate member of the General Conference on Weights and Measures in 2003, VMI has consistently demonstrated its leadership in metrology, a fact recognised by HSA.

9          Today, we are honoured to formalise our partnership with the VMI, an institution that shares our commitment to scientific rigour and innovation. This significant occasion is marked by the signing of this MOU, which reflects our joint vision for advancing scientific excellence and strengthening metrology in the Asia-Pacific region.

10       I must say that the signing of today’s MOU goes beyond a formal agreement; it is a testament to our shared vision for a future where scientific rigour and innovation thrive. Through joint research, knowledge-sharing, sharing of best practices, and capacity building, we aim to tackle pressing challenges such as food safety and healthcare, creating lasting positive change. As Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh once said, “The health of the people is the strength of the country.”  Our collaboration is ultimately in advancing scientific measurements, fostering trust through science, making a lasting impact on the broader scientific community and ultimately enhancing accurate and high quality clinical services to the people and improving their lives.

11       Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism. This partnership is not just a bridge between our institutions but a pathway to a brighter future. Together, we will redefine what is possible, innovate boldly, grow through shared experiences and inspire the next generation of scientists and metrologists to aim even higher.

12       To everyone here today, thank you for your dedication, vision, and contributions. Let this MOU be the foundation for a shared journey of excellence, one that improves not only the standards of measurement but also the standards of care for the people we serve.

Thank you.

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