Blog

21 Oct
AI’s Role in Mine Action: A Glimpse Into the Future

AI’s Role in Mine Action: A Glimpse Into the Future

Recently, ARMAC Executive Director Rothna Buth attended the Innovation Session in Geneva, which highlighted how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can transform mine action. The session explored how AI enhances efficiency, real-time risk education, decision-making, and resource allocation to address the challenges of landmines and unexploded ordnance.
While AI is not a substitute for human expertise, its integration with the skills of mine action professionals can lead to faster, safer, and more effective operations in conflict-prone regions.
We’re excited to share the media coverage of this important topic:
1. Cambodia Investment Review – https://bit.ly/3Y19cXZ
2. Jian Mei Zai Xian – https://bit.ly/3BEGOUd
Special thanks to GICHD for hosting this important event!
11 Oct
Celebrating International Collaboration in Humanitarian Demining!

Celebrating International Collaboration in Humanitarian Demining!

ARMAC proudly participated in the Closing Ceremony of the 2024 International Humanitarian Demining Training Course at the Army Engineering University of the People’s Liberation Army (AEU-PLA) in Nanjing, China, over the last two weeks.
Congratulations to Cambodia and Lao PDR for successfully completing the course! Your dedication to enhancing demining capabilities and regional safety is truly inspiring.
A special thank you to the People’s Republic of China for hosting this impactful training and for your continued support in advancing mine action efforts in the ASEAN region. Together, we are paving the way for a safer, mine-free future.
26 Sep
ARMAC’s Visit to China Telecom Unmanned Technology Innovation Center
ARMAC’s Visit to China Telecom Unmanned Technology Innovation Center
This morning, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), led by Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth and accompanied by Ms. Sereipanha Chrea, visited the China Telecom Unmanned Technology Innovation Center in Nanjing, China.
The visit focused on exploring the potential of innovative technology solutions in enhancing mine action across the ASEAN region.
The ARMAC delegation had the opportunity to engage with the director and general manager from China/Nanjing Telecom, where discussions centered on future collaboration opportunities and technology-driven solutions for safer, more efficient minefield operations.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Qianchun Luo, General Manager of the Technology Research and Development Department, and Ms. Yajie Du, General Manager of Nanjing Telecom Innovative Business Mixed Brigade, and the teams at Nanjing Telecom and China Telecom Unmanned Technology Innovation Center for their warm hospitality and insightful discussions.
ARMAC continues to advance innovation and partnerships in its mission to promote a safer, mine-free ASEAN.
25 Sep
Day 5: Closing Ceremony and Looking Ahead
Day 5: Closing Ceremony and Looking Ahead
What a remarkable week it has been! 🎓 Today, we concluded ARMAC’s sixth Psychosocial Support Training of Trainers with an inspiring closing ceremony.
We were honored to hear from distinguished guests, including Mr. Kim Hyun Soo, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to the Kingdom of Cambodia; H.E. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the Kingdom of Cambodia and Chairman of the Steering Committee of ARMAC; and Prof. Tan Hiang Khoon, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Future Health System), SGH, Group Director, International Collaboration Office, Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), and Director, SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute.
Mr. Kim Hyun Soo shared his thoughts on the training’s impact: “Our collaboration on the Enhanced Victim Assistance Programme in the ASEAN Member States represents a collective effort to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by communities affected by explosive ordnance. Korea is honored to stand with you in this endeavor and remains steadfast in its support.” He added, “The knowledge and skills you have acquired will foster recovery and resilience for countless individuals. Remember, what you do goes beyond helping individual victims; it’s about creating a world where we can live together with them.”
On behalf of H.E. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Chair of ARMAC’s Steering Committee, Mr. Soukinda Ounavong, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Lao PDR, added: “The commitment shown throughout this training is a testament to our shared goal of enhancing support for survivors and reinforcing our regional cooperation.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Korea and the ASEAN Korean Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for their generous support, which has been instrumental in making this impactful project possible.
Our trainees—now equipped with advanced skills in trauma care and mental health support—will go on to train others in their home countries, multiplying the impact of this training. Together, we are creating a brighter future for landmine survivors across ASEAN.
Prof. Tan Hiang Khoon, Deputy CEO of SingHealth, expressed optimism for the future: “The psychosocial support that we have integrated into this program is not just a component, but a lifeline for the survivors and their families, helping them reclaim their lives and rebuild their futures.”
25 Sep
Day 4: Self-Care for Caregivers
Day 4: Self-Care for Caregivers
As we near the end of our training, today’s sessions focused on self-care for mental health professionals and community workers. We know that caring for survivors of conflict can be emotionally demanding, which is why it’s so important to also focus on the well-being of the caregivers themselves.
Our participants engaged in dynamic role plays and discussions on maintaining mental and emotional resilience while supporting others. ARMAC and SingHealth are proud to equip these future trainers with tools for sustainable caregiving practices.
How do you prioritize self-care while helping others? Share your tips in the comments!
25 Sep
Day 3: Therapeutic Communication & Addiction Awareness
Day 3: Therapeutic Communication & Addiction Awareness
Day 3 at the ARMAC Training was packed with valuable insights on therapeutic communication and recognizing addiction in mental health care. Through interactive group sessions and role plays, participants practiced vital communication techniques to better understand and support survivors of conflict-related trauma.
With each session, we’re breaking barriers in mental health support for landmine and explosive ordnance survivors across ASEAN. The knowledge gained here will empower healthcare professionals to lead compassionate, effective responses in their communities.
Let’s continue the conversation! What’s one way you think we can better address addiction and trauma?
23 Sep
Day 3: Therapeutic Communication & Addiction Awareness
Day 3: Therapeutic Communication & Addiction Awareness
Day 3 at the ARMAC Training was packed with valuable insights on therapeutic communication and recognizing addiction in mental health care. Through interactive group sessions and role plays, participants practiced vital communication techniques to better understand and support survivors of conflict-related trauma.
With each session, we’re breaking barriers in mental health support for landmine and explosive ordnance survivors across ASEAN. The knowledge gained here will empower healthcare professionals to lead compassionate, effective responses in their communities.
Let’s continue the conversation! What’s one way you think we can better address addiction and trauma?
23 Sep
ARMAC Welcomes JICA Delegation for Discussions on Mine Action and Peacebuilding
ARMAC Welcomes JICA Delegation for Discussions on Mine Action and Peacebuilding
Last Friday, we had the honor of hosting a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) at the ARMAC office. Led by Ms. SHIMADA Tomoko, Director of the Peacebuilding Office, alongside Ms. KOMUKAI Eri, Senior Advisor, Ms. YOSHIDA Yuri, Officer of the Peacebuilding Office, and Mr. HAYASHI Akihito and Mr. ASADA Yoshinori, Advisors from the Mine Action Project, we engaged in fruitful discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in humanitarian mine action, capacity building, and promoting peace in the ASEAN region.
We look forward to advancing our partnership with JICA and working together to ensure safer communities across ASEAN.
18 Sep
Day 2: Exploring PTSD and Psychological First Aid
Day 2: Exploring PTSD and Psychological First Aid
Today at ARMAC’s Psychosocial Support Training, participants explored the complexities of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and how Psychological First Aid can help survivors of explosive ordnance incidents. Through interactive role plays, trainees shared real-life scenarios, learning valuable therapeutic techniques that will transform how they deliver care to trauma victims.
Thanks to SingHealth’s expert facilitation, participants are developing leadership skills that will strengthen their ability to support mental health professionals in their communities.
Together, we’re building a stronger support network across ASEAN!
What techniques have you found helpful in providing psychological support?
18 Sep
Day 1: In-Depth Discussions on Mental Health
Day 1: In-Depth Discussions on Mental Health
Yesterday marked the beginning of ARMAC’s sixth Psychosocial Support Training of Trainers (T.O.T) in partnership with SingHealth! We are honored to welcome healthcare professionals from across the region to Phnom Penh for five transformative days of learning and collaboration.
The first day kicked off with insightful discussions and practical learning, focusing on mental health services for explosive ordnance survivors. Guided by our dedicated trainers from SingHealth, the morning session centered on improving access to mental health care through joint discussions between psychiatrists, Ministry of Health representatives, and community members. The dialogue identified gaps in care and explored strategies for better integration of services.
In the afternoon, groups tackled key topics such as the psychosocial impact of trauma, with the psychology group covering depression and anxiety, while the psychiatry group focused on leadership and mentorship development. Participants actively engaged in role-play exercises, practicing therapeutic techniques and sharing real-life examples to enhance their skills.
A heartfelt thank you to the Government of the Republic of Korea and the ASEAN Korean Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for their generous support in funding this project.
Stay tuned for more as we continue to explore trauma management and mental health strategies.
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