UNFPA admire Najib's commitment in family planning

KUALA LUMPUR: United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has given the thumps up to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak over his commitment in undertaking family planning initiatives in the country.

This was stated by its executive director Dr Babatunde Osotimehin during a presidential session on women's health at the 3rd Women Deliver Global Conference 2013, here, today.

"I admire Malaysian prime minister for his commitment pertaining to family planning which I regard as a human right," he said today.

The panelists also included Barbara Bush, the daughter of former United States President George W. Bush and co-founder and chief executive officer of Global Health Corps, and Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit.

More than 3,000 delegates, including policymakers, advocates and world leaders representing over 150 countries, are attending the three-day conference beginning today.

Malaysia is the first Asian country to be given the honour to host the global conference that was previously held in London and Washington D.C.

The event is touted as the largest global conference of the decade to focus on the health and well-being of girls and women, organised by Women Deliver which has its headquarters in New York.

Meanwhile, Bush said young people should be involved in efforts to create awareness of women's health including maternal mortality and cervical cancer.

She said potential and commitment showed by youths in implementing global aspirations, especially in influencing their peers, would help promote better health among women. -- BERNAMA

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)