Brunei Unveils Groundbreaking AI Health Screening at UBD
Brunei Darussalam is making headlines in the field of digital health with the launch of a pioneering artificial intelligence (AI)-based nationwide health screening process. This innovation, developed by researchers at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), was showcased during a special exhibition following the university’s 36th Convocation Ceremony, attended by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other dignitaries. The event highlighted Brunei’s commitment to leveraging technology for public health, sustainability, and cultural preservation.
How Does Brunei’s AI Health Screening Work?
The AI-based health screening system is integrated into the BruHealth application, Brunei’s national digital health platform. This system is designed to assess the risk of major diseases, specifically cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer, which are among the leading causes of death both globally and in Brunei. The AI model used in the screening process is reported to be more accurate than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) current risk calculators, offering Bruneians a more precise assessment of their health risks.
To date, over 16,000 individuals have participated in the cardiovascular disease screening, and more than 14,000 have undergone colorectal cancer screening through the platform. The system uses a predictive model that analyzes a range of health data to identify individuals at higher risk, enabling earlier intervention and potentially saving lives through timely treatment and lifestyle changes.
BruHealth 5.0: Expanding Digital Health Horizons
The BruHealth app, which became widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, has evolved into a comprehensive digital health platform. The recent launch of BruHealth 5.0 introduced new features such as AI-powered health indices, personalized wellness recommendations, and expanded screening programs that now include cervical and breast cancer. The app also encourages healthy habits through gamified challenges and allows users to track routines like diet, sleep, and medication adherence.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Md Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Brunei’s Minister of Health, emphasized the transformative potential of BruHealth, stating that the platform “lays the foundation for a healthcare system driven by data and innovation, with artificial intelligence soon transforming data into actionable insights for personalized care, efficient resource utilization, and better decision-making.”
AI Innovations Beyond Health Screening
Brunei’s commitment to AI in healthcare extends beyond the BruHealth platform. In April 2024, Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) introduced the nation’s first AI-powered diabetic retinopathy screening service. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss among people with diabetes, and early detection is crucial. The AI system enables non-invasive, rapid screening, improving preventive care and reducing the risk of severe complications.
Dr Hjh Helena POKSJ DP Hj Hurairah, a visiting consultant ophthalmologist at JPMC, expressed optimism about the technology’s impact:
“We are excited to be part of this innovation and explore the endless possibilities of improving our diagnosis as ophthalmologists, allowing better health for our patients.”
Promoting Healthy Ageing and Sustainability
The UBD exhibition also featured initiatives aimed at supporting Brunei’s ageing population. The Centre for Advanced Research (CARe) team collaborates with healthcare organizations and community groups to develop programs addressing the unique needs of the elderly, promoting successful ageing and social inclusion.
In the realm of sustainability, UBD’s Shell Eco-Marathon team, ‘Belia Tabah’, showcased their prototype electric vehicle, Mekar. The vehicle set a new national record for energy efficiency at the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and Middle East 2024, achieving 285.5 km/kWh and winning a top prize for carbon footprint reduction. This achievement underscores UBD’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable engineering.
Fusing Technology and Culture
The exhibition also celebrated the intersection of technology and culture. Artist Afiq Rafiqin Faiz Al-warits presented works that blend photography, AI artistry, and historical research, aiming to reconnect audiences with Bruneian landscapes and narratives. Meanwhile, Nur Azreen Adauwiyah Muhammad Tony Razzaq reimagined the traditional Bruneian folktale Si Kuning as a modern comic, preserving cultural heritage through contemporary media.
In Summary
- Brunei has launched a world-first AI-based nationwide health screening system via the BruHealth app, focusing on early detection of cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer.
- BruHealth 5.0 introduces advanced AI features, personalized health recommendations, and expanded screening programs.
- AI-driven diabetic retinopathy screening is now available at JPMC, enhancing preventive eye care for diabetics.
- UBD’s initiatives also include programs for healthy ageing and record-breaking achievements in sustainable engineering.
- The exhibition highlighted the fusion of technology and culture, with artists using AI and digital media to preserve Bruneian heritage.
