ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
05
Jul
Inception Meeting, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Last week, we had a productive inception meeting with the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) to discuss the upcoming Regional Workshop on Enhancing Victim Assistance Programmes in ASEAN Member States. This important event is set to take place in Phnom Penh end of 2024.
The workshop will focus on:
Enhancing victim assistance data management Sharing best practices and innovative solutions Strengthening regional cooperation for victim supportA big thank you to our dedicated team members from ARMAC, CMAA, AKPMT, Exceed Worldwide, Preah Ket Mealea Hospital Royal , and Cambodian Army General Hospital.
A special acknowledgment to our donor, the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, for their invaluable support in making these initiatives possible.
Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to enhance victim assistance across the region!
04
Jul
ARMAC hosted a fruitful follow-up meeting with the Embassy of New Zealand at our headquarters in Phnom Penh
Today, ARMAC hosted a fruitful follow-up meeting with the Embassy of New Zealand at our headquarters in Phnom Penh. Representing the embassy were Mr. Matthew Allen, First Secretary, and Ms. Natthanun Patcharapunchai, Development Programme Coordinator.
This meeting served as a continuation of our previous discussions, during which we provided updates on ARMAC’s ongoing projects and explored avenues for future collaboration. We are grateful for New Zealand’s continuous support and commitment to ARMAC and Mine Action in the ASEAN region.
The insights and support from Mr. Allen and Ms. Patcharapunchai are invaluable as we strive to enhance the national mine action management capacities of ASEAN Member States, promote humanitarian mine action standards, and develop ARMAC into a regional center of excellence.
Together, with continued support from partners like New Zealand, we are confident in our mission to mitigate the dangers posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war, ensuring safer and more prosperous communities across ASEAN.
04
Jun
Our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, represented ARMAC at the prestigious 3rd International Conference on Mine Action themed “Mitigating Environmental Impact of Landmines: Resource Mobilization for Safe and Green Future in Baku, Azerbaijan
We are deeply honored that our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, represented ARMAC at the prestigious 3rd International Conference on Mine Action themed “Mitigating Environmental Impact of Landmines: Resource Mobilization for Safe and Green Future in Baku, Azerbaijan. This pivotal event united international leaders and experts to confront the critical environmental impacts of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Ms. Buth’s participation as a panelist on the Global Imperatives for Environmental Mitigation underscored our unwavering commitment to empowering communities through collaborative and innovative approaches. Her passionate remarks highlighted the urgent need for green humanitarian mine action, leveraging advanced technologies, and adopting sustainable practices to heal our land and safeguard our future.
We extend our profound gratitude to ANAMA and UNDP for their exceptional hospitality and for orchestrating such an impactful and successful conference. The connections forged and the knowledge exchanged at this event are vital strides toward our shared vision of a safer, greener world.
Together, we are not just clearing mines; we are restoring hope, rebuilding communities, and nurturing the environment for generations to come.
03
Jun
We were honored to welcome the French embassy delegation to ARMAC,
We were honored to welcome the French embassy delegation to ARMAC today. Led by Ambassador Jacques Pellet, Deputy Head of Mission Mr. Fabrice Etienne, and Battalion Chief Cyprien Martin, PKO Project Head and Adviser to the Director General of NPMEC, the visit marked a significant step towards fostering future collaboration.
ARMAC’s Executive Director, Rothna Buth, had the pleasure of hosting this friendly and productive meeting. We discussed potential avenues for cooperation and ways to strengthen our efforts in humanitarian mine action.
ARMAC is committed to enhancing regional collaboration and developing as a center of excellence. We look forward to working closely with our French partners to achieve these goals.
03
Jun
ARMAC Workshop Boosts ASEAN Victim Assistance Network
Bangkok, Thailand – May 28, 2024 – The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) launched a pivotal workshop today in Bangkok, setting the stage for a comprehensive Regional Victim Assistance Network and establishing new guidelines for enhanced victim support. Supported by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund and attended by 120 delegates from 8 countries, the event represents a significant advancement in victim assistance efforts across ASEAN member states, highlighting the region’s commitment to addressing the needs of explosive ordnance victims.
Leaders Highlight Multilateral Support
The workshop at Novotel Bangkok Hotel Sukhumvit 20 opened with remarks from Mr. Kantapong Rangsesawang, Director General, the Department of Empowerment
of Persons with Disabilities (DEP), Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand; He underscored Thailand’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to inclusive access to rights and services, aligned with the Persons with Disabilities Empowerment Act and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
ARMAC’s Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, expressed deep gratitude to the Ministry Social Development and Human Security for co-hosting the event and acknowledged the critical support from the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund.
“Together, we stand united in our resolve to provide comprehensive support and rehabilitation, ensuring that no victim is left behind,” said Ms. Buth, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the complex challenges faced by explosive ordnance victims.
Korea’s Ongoing Commitment
Representatives from the Republic of Korea shared insights into their nation’s active involvement in victim assistance programs through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund. They discussed Korea’s ongoing humanitarian mine action efforts, including their leadership role in the Mine Action Support Group in Geneva.
Mr. Jeong-Han Hahm, the Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Thailand, added, “The Republic of Korea has been actively supporting victim assistance programs through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, with ARMAC leading initiatives to assist mine and explosive remnants of war victims in the region. By working together, we can develop comprehensive support systems that ensure victims receive the necessary medical, psychological, and social support to reintegrate into society and lead fulfilling lives.”
A Safer, Inclusive Future
ARMAC extends profound thanks to all participants and partners for their steadfast dedication. The ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund’s generous support underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing the needs of explosive ordnance victims. The workshop is anticipated to mark a significant milestone in advancing victim assistance within the ASEAN region. ARMAC remains devoted to fostering an inclusive, resilient community where all individuals can live with dignity, free from the impacts of explosive ordnance.
01
Jun
Day 3 of the Regional Workshop: Hands-On Learning and Field Visits!
Day 3 of the Regional Workshop: Hands-On Learning and Field Visits!
The final day of our Regional Workshop was an extraordinary experience as participants embarked on insightful field visits to leading facilities in victim assistance.
Divided into groups, participants visited the Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute and the National Institute for Emergency Medicine. These visits included engaging presentations, in-depth discussions, short seminars, and practical simulations, offering a firsthand look at the innovative approaches being implemented in victim care and rehabilitation.
The knowledge gained and the connections made today will undoubtedly enhance our collective efforts in developing robust victim assistance programs across ASEAN Member States.
A heartfelt thank you to our hosts and all participants for their dedication and enthusiasm throughout this workshop. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future for victims of explosive ordnance.
Stay connected for more updates and continued efforts in supporting victims across the region!
01
Jun
ARMAC had the honor of meeting with the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), led by Lt. Gen. Nattawut Sabyeroop
Today, we had the honor of meeting with the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), led by Lt. Gen. Nattawut Sabyeroop, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, represented by Karin Kunjara Na Ayudhya, First Secretary, at the TMAC Headquarters. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Thailand Civilian Deminer Association (TDA), Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), and the Golden West Foundation.
This meeting was an excellent opportunity to discuss the impressive progress made by TMAC in demining operations and ensuring the safety of communities across Thailand. We deeply appreciate TMAC’s dedication and achievements, which serve as an inspiration for the entire region.
At ARMAC, we are committed to supporting TMAC’s ongoing efforts through enhanced collaboration. By providing targeted assistance in capacity building, technical support, and facilitating the exchange of best practices among ASEAN member states and beyond, we aim to strengthen our collective impact and work towards a safer, mine-free future.
We are grateful for their warm hospitality and the support they have extended to ARMAC.
#ARMAC #TMAC #MineAction #Collaboration #ASEAN #Safety #Community
01
Jun
Day 2 of the Regional Workshop: Elevating Victim Assistance in ASEAN!
Day 2 of the Regional Workshop: Elevating Victim Assistance in ASEAN!
Bangkok, Thailand – May 29, 2024 – was another incredible day at the Regional Workshop as we explored new ways to enhance victim assistance programs across ASEAN Member States. Our focus was on harmonizing Regional Guidelines with national standards, ensuring a cohesive and effective approach to supporting victims.
The energy was high as participants engaged in dynamic discussions and group sessions, working collaboratively to draft and refine the content for our Regional Guidelines. We also shared exciting updates on the progress of the Country Profile Sheets for Explosive Ordnance (EO) affected countries, paving the way for comprehensive and actionable plans.
The commitment and enthusiasm of everyone involved were truly inspiring. Together, we are making significant strides toward a more integrated and impactful victim assistance program.
A Safer, Inclusive Future
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our mission to support and empower victims across the region. Your support makes a difference!
16
May
Our Executive Director and Project Manager joined over ninety participants from around forty entities linked to ASEAN, gathering to discuss key regional issues and collaborative opportunities
We were honored to participate in the 8th Forum of Entities associated with ASEAN at the ASEAN Headquarters today. Our Executive Director and Project Manager joined over ninety participants from around forty entities linked to ASEAN, gathering to discuss key regional issues and collaborative opportunities.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn opened the Forum, emphasizing the growing importance of ASEAN Entities in transforming challenges into opportunities. His optimism about the Forum as a platform for fruitful discussions and cooperation resonates deeply with us at ARMAC.
Special thanks to the Chair of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, who shared insightful priorities under Lao PDR’s Chairmanship. The interactive discussions with Deputy Secretaries-General Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz and Nararya Soeprapto further highlighted the depth of engagement and commitment among ASEAN communities.
As we continue our mission, the insights gained from this day engagements are invaluable. We look forward to fostering stronger ties and more robust cooperation across all sectors to enhance peace and development in the region.
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