MoU: To help strengthen traditional medicine services in the country, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between department of traditional medicine service of the health ministry and Thailand’s Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) yesterday.

With the signing, the university is expected to help in consultation and support research and development of Bhutanese natural resources into cosmetic products, using appropriate and friendly environment and sustainable methods.

Three batches of two officials each from the health ministry will receive trainings on developing cosmetic products at the MFU this year.  At present, there are 10 Bhutanese studying at the MFU in various subjects.

The president of MFU, Vanchai Sirichana, said that sharing of resources, knowledge, technology and laboratory facilities are the highlights of the MoU. “The two parties will work closely towards a common goal of excellence in research in the fields of cosmetics, wellness, spa and traditional medicinal products development using local products,” he said.

Health minister Tandin Wangchuk said the MoU was expected to help diversification of products of Menjong Sorig pharmaceutical, which will help promote economy and traditional medical system in the country.  Besides, lyonpo said, Bhutan would be able to become self-reliant in traditional medicine services, with increasing number of people in the country opting for traditional medicine as alternative means of treatment.

“This’ll pave way to make best use of our rich medicinal resources, but we should be mindful of our delicate ecosystem while at the same time overcoming the resource and technical challenges,” lyonpo said.

Dechen Tshomo