Malaysia and Singapore today vowed to maintain vigilance against Sars and to work together to combat future outbreaks of infectious diseases.

"Both sides will maintain existing framework of mutual collaboration for future diseases outbreaks," said a joint statement released after a meeting of health officials from the two countries.

"In addition, the officials also maintained that heightened vigilance and continued surveillance is necessary for combating the threat posed by emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases."

At the height of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars) outbreak, Malaysian health officials in May criticised Singapore for allowing four people with Sars symptoms to enter Malaysia.

Major impact

Two people died from seven Sars infections in Malaysia and there has also been a major impact on business.

Thirty-two people died from 206 Sars infections in Singapore.

Both countries also briefed each other on the management of possible future outbreaks of Sars and other infectious diseases, the statement said.

The health officials agreed to hold another meeting in three months. - AFP