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05 Nov
National Consultative Workshop on Victim Assistance
Empowering Victims of Explosive Ordnance in Thailand 🇹🇭 | National Consultative Workshop on Victim Assistance
Today, ARMAC held a powerful National Consultative Workshop in Thailand, bringing together national and international experts, government representatives, and dedicated partners to advance critical support for victims of explosive ordnance (EO). With survivors’ voices at the center, this workshop explored vital topics such as medical care, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support to bridge essential gaps in victim assistance.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners from the Department of ASEAN Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Thailand Mine Action Center, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the Joint Civil Affairs of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, and esteemed consultants, including Dr. Pornpimon Prasongporn and her team. We are honored to work alongside our colleagues from Yonsei University, SingHealth, and Ms. Leila El Ali from Lebanon in this collaborative effort.
A special thank you to the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, whose generous support has made this project possible. Together, we’re creating an empowered, resilient, and inclusive future for all victims and survivors across ASEAN.
Stay tuned for more updates on our continued journey toward making a tangible difference in the lives of EO survivors across the region.
05 Nov
Launching Our Feasibility Study on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in Thailand: Centering on Survivors’ Needs
Launching Our Feasibility Study on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in Thailand: Centering on Survivors’ Needs
Bangkok, 31 October 2024, ARMAC initiated a crucial collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand, to advance our shared commitment to victim assistance. Led by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, along with the Victim Assistance (VA) project team, Prof. Cho Jai Kook from Yonsei University, and our partners at SingHealth, we joined DEP’s Ms. Haruthai Sirisinudomkit, Director of Strategy and Planning and Ms. Nantsnoot Suwannawut Director of International Coorporaton, who provided a comprehensive overview of the DEP’s impactful work, offering our team deeper insights into the vital support available and areas where needs remain.
The focus of this feasibility study is clear: we are here to listen, learn, and put the needs of EO survivors first. By assessing gaps in physical and mental health services for EO survivors in Thailand, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam, we aim to build a pathway toward improved healthcare support and a better quality of life for those affected.
This is just the beginning. With the generous support of the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund and our valued local partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand – ASEAN Department, DEP, Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), and the Joint Civil Affairs, Royal Thai Armed Forces, we are committed to expanding essential services. In the days ahead, we’ll work alongside healthcare providers, local communities, and dedicated partners to ensure that EO survivors’ voices are heard and that their needs remain at the heart of our work.
Stay tuned for more updates from the field and our upcoming National Consultative Workshop in Thailand. Together, we’re building a safer, more inclusive future.
22 Oct
National Consultation Workshop on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims in Myanmar
National Consultation Workshop on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims in Myanmar
Last week, ARMAC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, held a significant National Consultation Workshop in Nay Pyi Taw, focusing on the physical rehabilitation and mental health needs of EO victims.
The workshop, part of ARMAC’s Enhance Victim Assistance Programme, supported by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, brought together key stakeholders from various ministries, international organizations, and local partners. Participants discussed gaps in current services and explored ways to strengthen support for victims, particularly in rehabilitation, mental health care, and social reintegration.
In her opening remarks, ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure that no victim of explosive ordnance is left behind, noting: “We are here to listen, learn, and work together to address the challenges and ensure that survivors can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
The Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement, His Excellency Dr. Soe Win, also highlighted the importance of collaboration and the role Myanmar plays in supporting victims through its mine risk education and rehabilitation programs. His speech reminded everyone of the enduring impact of explosive ordnance on individuals, families, and communities across the region.
A heartfelt thank you to all our partners, particularly the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund and AKPMT, for making this initiative possible, and to the many ministries and organizations present today. Together, we take critical steps toward ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the care and support they deserve.
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?
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