ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
14
Apr
Forging a Safer ASEAN: ARMAC and GICHD Sign Landmark MOU on Mine Action Cooperation
Today in Geneva, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) proudly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD), a key milestone in strengthening regional and global cooperation in mine action.
This strategic partnership underscores ARMAC’s growing role as a regional center of excellence in mine action.
More importantly, it also aligns with ASEAN’s Political-Security Community Blueprint 2025 and ARMAC’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027, both of which emphasize collaborative, innovative, and inclusive approaches to addressing the humanitarian impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW).
By joining forces, ARMAC and GICHD aim to:
– Expand technical cooperation and capacity-building across ASEAN Member States,
– Foster joint research and training initiatives,
– Promote knowledge exchange to support affected communities and national authorities.
This MOU not only reaffirms our shared vision of a mine-free ASEAN—it also reflects a broader commitment to sustainable peace, security, and development throughout the region.
We look forward to working closely with GICHD to drive innovative solutions and ensure that no community is left behind.
07
Apr
ARMAC Convenes National Consultation in Viet Nam to Advance Victim Assistance for Explosive Ordnance Survivors
ARMAC Convenes National Consultation in Viet Nam to Advance Victim Assistance for Explosive Ordnance Survivors
Ha Noi, Viet Nam — 4 April 2025
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) hosted a National Consultation Workshop on the Feasibility Study on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims and Other Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ha Noi, Viet Nam, on 4 April 2025. The workshop is a pivotal step in ARMAC’s broader mission to enhance victim assistance across ASEAN Member States (AMS), ensuring that survivors of EO incidents receive the comprehensive support they need.
The event, organized in partnership with the Viet Nam Association for Supporting UXO/Mine Action Efforts (VNASMA) and the Viet Nam National Mine Action Center (VNMAC), drew key stakeholders from across sectors, including government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental groups, and representatives of the disability community. Additional technical and research expertise was provided by SingHealth (Singapore), Peace Sharing Association (PSA) and Yonsei University (South Korea), reinforcing the region’s commitment to evidence-based approaches in victim assistance. This important initiative has been made possible with the generous support of the Government of the Republic of Korea (ROK) through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF), whose unwavering commitment continues to enable and advance our shared efforts to support EO victims across the region.
Opening the workshop, Ms. Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, emphasized the fundamental principle that victim assistance must go beyond medical treatment. “This is about restoring dignity, fostering independence, and ensuring inclusion,” she stated. “We are here not just to analyze needs, but to translate research into tangible improvements that empower victims and enable them to rebuild their lives.”
A Regional Effort to Strengthen Victim Assistance
The Viet Nam study builds upon ARMAC’s ongoing research and engagement in Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Lao PDR, underscoring the organization’s regional commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of EO survivors. This initiative is part of a broader effort to develop a comprehensive and rights-based victim assistance framework that integrates medical care, psychosocial support, and socioeconomic reintegration, ensuring that survivors are not left behind.
“Today’s discussions have been invaluable,” Ms. Buth noted. “By bringing together policymakers, experts, and the disability community, we are not only identifying service gaps but also crafting actionable recommendations. The success of our collective efforts will be measured by how well we translate these insights into policies and programs that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Bridging Gaps in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Support
The Feasibility Study aims to assess Viet Nam’s existing victim assistance landscape, identifying critical service gaps and areas for improvement in both physical rehabilitation and mental health care. Key focus areas include:
- Expanding access to prosthetics and rehabilitation services for EO survivors, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
- Strengthening mental health and psychosocial support systems, ensuring that survivors receive culturally appropriate counselling and trauma care.
- Promoting economic empowerment and social inclusion, enabling EO survivors and persons with disabilities to participate fully in their communities and the workforce.
The workshop convened 56 participants, including representatives from government agencies, development organizations, rehabilitation centers, civil society, and the private sector. Their collective expertise and input will be instrumental in shaping policy recommendations that are practical, inclusive, and impactful.
A Call for Continued Regional Collaboration
In her closing remarks, Ms. Buth reaffirmed ARMAC’s commitment to regional cooperation. “I extend my deepest gratitude to our partners—VNASMA, VNMAC, SingHealth, PSA, Yonsei University, and all participants—for their dedication to this cause,” she said. “This is a shared responsibility, and together, we will continue working to ensure that no survivor is left behind.” Their partnership, along with AKCF support, has been instrumental in advancing victim assistance programs across the region and ensuring meaningful impact.
As the workshop concluded, Ms. Buth expressed her hope for continued collaboration, urging participants to carry forward the momentum of the discussions. “May you travel with the same sense of purpose and commitment that you have demonstrated here,” she said. “And may our collective efforts bring lasting change to the lives of EO survivors and their families.”
About ARMAC:
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is a regional center of excellence established under the ASEAN framework to support Member States in addressing the humanitarian and developmental impacts of explosive ordnance. ARMAC fosters regional cooperation, builds technical capacities, and provides expertise to ensure that all affected communities are equipped to recover from the effects of war and move forward in peace and security.
For press inquiries, please contact:
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center
#29, Street 115, Sangkat Veal Vong, Khan 7 Makara, Phnom Penh 120307, Cambodia
Tel: (+855) 23 221 354 / (+855) 23 221 364
Email: secretariat@aseanmineaction.org
End of Press Release
25
Feb
Celebrating Cambodia’s 26th National Mine Awareness Day
Celebrating Cambodia’s 26th National Mine Awareness Day
ARMAC congratulates Cambodia on the 26th National Mine Awareness Day, marking another milestone in the nation’s commitment to a mine-free future. This day underscores Cambodia’s leadership in mine action, inspiring the region through its dedication to demining, victim assistance, risk education, and capacity building.
Today, ARMAC had the privilege of participating in the official commemoration in Banteay Meanchey Province, alongside distinguished guests including H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of CMAA; H.E. Oum Reatrey, Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province; Ms. Alissar Chaker, Resident Representative of UNDP Cambodia; and Ms. Kristy Harries, Development Counsellor of the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh. The event brought together over 1,200 participants—government officials, development partners, demining operators, diplomats, educators, religious leaders, and survivors—demonstrating the collective commitment to mine action.
In her remarks, ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth reaffirmed our commitment to supporting Cambodia and ASEAN in advancing mine action through regional cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and capacity development. We commend CMAA for its leadership and extend our gratitude to all partners working toward a safer and more inclusive future for affected communities.
As Cambodia moves closer to its mine-free goal, ARMAC remains dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation to ensure lasting impact across the region.
Once again, congratulations to Cambodia on this significant occasion!
24
Feb
Field Study and Collaboration in Xieng Khouang Province, Lao PDR
Field Study and Collaboration in Xieng Khouang Province, Lao PDR
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance victim assistance across ASEAN, ARMAC—alongside SingHealth, Yonsei University of South Korea, and our dedicated filming team—had the privilege of meeting Mr. Syvone Onlavong, General Director of the Xieng Khouang Province Department of Foreign Affairs.
Our discussions focused on the Feasibility Study on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims and Other Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lao PDR.
This study is a key component of ARMAC’s Enhance Victim Assistance Programme in ASEAN Member States (VA Project), which is strengthening victim assistance efforts across Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and now Lao PDR.
Our objective is to assess the needs of UXO survivors and enhance rehabilitation services, ensuring that survivors’ voices are not only heard but also inform meaningful policy and programmatic changes.
In addition to field research, we are also documenting the lived experiences of survivors through the Voice of Victims documentary. This initiative aims to amplify the resilience and challenges of those affected by explosive ordnance, shedding light on their path to recovery and empowerment.
We express our deepest gratitude to the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for making this work possible, as well as to our key partners, the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Lao PDR, for their invaluable cooperation in facilitating this study.
Their continued commitment to improving victim assistance and survivor support is essential in building a more inclusive and resilient region.
This is just the beginning. As we advance our study in Lao PDR, we look forward to sharing more insights and working together toward a future where every UXO survivor has access to comprehensive support services, rehabilitation, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
27
Jan
ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA)
ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA)
Today, ARMAC’s Executive Director Ms Rothna Buth, alongside the ARMAC team, had the honor of meeting with H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA).
This meeting underscored ARMAC’s enduring commitment to strengthening partnerships and advancing collaborative mine action efforts in Cambodia and across the ASEAN region.
ARMAC congratulates CMAA on its remarkable achievements in tackling the challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW).
These efforts, guided by the vision and leadership of H.E. Ly Thuch, exemplify the dedication needed to ensure safety, resilience, and sustainable development for affected communities.
ARMAC remains steadfast in its mission to foster regional cooperation, share best practices, and promote inclusive victim assistance services in line with international standards.
Our collaboration with CMAA plays a pivotal role in achieving the shared goal of a mine-free and prosperous ASEAN region.
We extend our sincere gratitude to CMAA for its unwavering support and leadership, and we look forward to further strengthening this partnership.
Together, we will continue making significant strides toward alleviating the humanitarian impact of mines and ERW.
16
Jan
ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia
ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia
On 15 January 2025, ARMAC represented by our Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth, had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia. As a founding figure of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), His Excellency has been an unwavering advocate for ARMAC’s mission to promote peace, security, and sustainable development throughout ASEAN.
Cambodia has long played a vital role in ARMAC’s success. As ARMAC’s primary financial supporter, the Royal Government of Cambodia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC), ensures the sustainability of critical efforts to address the humanitarian impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). This steadfast commitment reflects Cambodia’s broader dedication to fostering regional cooperation, improving the lives of affected communities, and realizing the vision of a mine-free ASEAN.
During our meeting, His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister shared valuable insights that will guide ARMAC in expanding its impact and strengthening initiatives focused on victim assistance, risk education, and regional collaboration. His Excellency’s leadership exemplifies the spirit of partnership and collaboration that ARMAC seeks to inspire across ASEAN—building safer communities and empowering those affected by explosive ordnance.
ARMAC expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Royal Government of Cambodia for its enduring support and to our development partners for their shared commitment to this vital mission. Together, we remain resolute in our vision of a safer, more prosperous future for all.
03
Dec
Reflecting on the 5th Review Conference
Reflecting on the 5th Review Conference
A heartfelt congratulations to Cambodia for successfully hosting the 5th Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, marking the first time this important event has taken place in the ASEAN region. This achievement not only highlights Cambodia’s leadership in the field of mine action but also sets a strong example for regional cooperation in addressing the humanitarian impacts of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
During the five-day conference, ARMAC was proud to introduce the S.A.F.E. Chatbot (Saving All From Explosive Ordnance), an innovative AI-driven prototype designed to enhance Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) across ASEAN. It was inspiring to witness so many participants engage with the chatbot and test its potential as a life-saving resource, helping us move closer to our goal of a mine-free ASEAN.
We were deeply honored by the presence of distinguished leaders and stakeholders, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Neth Savoeun, Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, H.E. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), H.E. Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Ambassador Tobias Privitelli, Director of GICHD, Prince Mired Bin Raad Bin Zeid Al Hussein, Special Envoy on the Universalization of the APMBC, and numerous ASEAN ambassadors, delegates, donors, partners, and stakeholders.
Your support and active participation in the conference reaffirmed our collective commitment to advancing mine action and ensuring a safer future for all.
This event also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility in building a safer, more secure world. We look forward to continuing our partnerships and working together to make the vision of a mine-free ASEAN a reality.
Together, we are not only addressing the challenges of today but also creating a brighter, safer future for the generations to come.
25
Nov
SAFE: A Game-Changer in Risk Education!
Spotlight on SAFE Chatbot 25 Nov 2024 
SAFE: A Game-Changer in Risk Education!
LIVE from the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit, ARMAC’s innovative SAFE (Saving All From EO) chatbot is stealing the spotlight!
Interactive. Multilingual. Accessible via popular messaging apps.SAFE is empowering communities with real-time guidance on recognizing and avoiding landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Delegates, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Neth Savoeun and Senior Minister H.E. Ly Thuch, have experienced SAFE in action at our booth!
ARMAC is proud to lead the way in using technology to save lives. Want to support this lifesaving mission?
Join us in scaling SAFE across ASEAN Member States!
Email us at: secretariat@aseanmineaction.org
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
3. TNAOT – https://bit.ly/3zWp5qM
4. INNEWS – https://bit.ly/3Bzc4nh
5. Khmer Times – https://www.khmertimeskh.com/…/ais-role-in-mine-action…/
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.
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