The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), we extend our warmest congratulations to the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) on the successful launch of the Cambodia Mine Action Management Information System.
ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
20
Mar
ARMAC extend the warmest congratulations to the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA)
This significant achievement marks a pivotal advancement in mine action operations within Cambodia, showcasing a commitment to innovation and excellence.
We encourage all ASEAN Member States to draw inspiration from CMAA’s pioneering efforts and to continue striving for innovative solutions that enhance the safety and development of our communities. Together, we can achieve a mine-free ASEAN.
For further details, please refer to the original article [here](http://en.fna.asia/8563b).
08
Mar
Ms. Rothna Buth Appointed as the First Female Executive Director of ARMAC
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – March 7, 2024 – On the event of International Women’s Day, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) proudly announces the historic appointment of Rothna Buth as its new Executive Director. This marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to hold this leadership position in the organization’s history. Her appointment, on the cusp of a day that celebrates the achievements of women worldwide, underscores ARMAC’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive leadership in the realm of humanitarian demining and explosive ordnance disposal.
Rothna Buth has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision in her previous roles in humanitarian demining efforts in Cambodia. Her extensive experience, including impactful contributions as the Country Operation Manager for the Humanitarian Research and Development Program (HD R and D), Country Director for The Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation and over a decade with MAG (Mines Advisory Group), has prepared her to lead ARMAC toward new horizons of excellence and effectiveness in mine action.
In her acceptance speech, Ms. Buth expressed her gratitude and vision for the future: “I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the steering committee and the Kingdom of Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I dedicate my appointment as a testament to the strides we are making towards gender equality and the empowerment of women in leadership roles. I am committed to leveraging my expertise and dedicating all necessary resources to advance our shared goals. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in mine action, striving to create a safer, more prosperous future for all.”
The outgoing chair, H.E. Santo Darmosumarto, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Kingdom of Cambodia, reflected on Ms. Buth’s appointment: “In Ms. Rothna, we find not just a leader but a beacon of innovation and inclusivity, a pioneer who shatters ceilings and forges pathways for others to follow. Her leadership comes at a time when our mission’s need is as pressing as ever.”
The incoming chair, H.E. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the Kingdom of Cambodia, also shared his enthusiasm: “Today marks not just a transition but a historic milestone for ARMAC as we welcome Ms. Rothna Buth. Her appointment heralds an era where inclusivity and diversity are celebrated. Under Ms. Buth’s stewardship, ARMAC is poised to enhance its role as the center of excellence, driving forward our mission to alleviate the sufferings of communities affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war.”
ARMAC, headquartered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, plays a pivotal role in coordinating and facilitating cooperation among ASEAN Member States and various stakeholders to address the challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war. With Ms. Buth at the helm, ARMAC is set to enhance its impact across the region, furthering its mission for a safer and more prosperous Southeast Asia.
For more information about ARMAC and its initiatives, please visit the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center https://aseanmineaction.org/
-The End-
25
Feb
25th Anniversary of National Mine Awareness Day
As we mark the 25th Anniversary of National Mine Awareness Day, the vibrant celebrations in Battambang City serve as a powerful reminder of our collective journey towards a safer future. The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), in solidarity with the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and the global community, celebrates this pivotal milestone in our mission against the remnants of war.
It was an honor for our Executive Director Rothna Buth to attend this significant event, embodying ARMAC’s dedication to mine action across ASEAN.
Our commitment is further exemplified by the inspiring leadership and vision shared by H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of CMAA. His updates on Cambodia’s progress towards a landmine-free 2025 and the establishment of the “Samdech Techo Project for Mine Action” under the theme “Providing Safe Ground, Creating Smiles” are commendable milestones in our shared mission.
Central to our reflections on this day is the profound speech by H.E Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Kingdom of Cambodia and ASEAN Chairmanship 2024. He eloquently highlighted the essence of unity and collaboration in overcoming the challenges posed by landmines and Explosive Ordnance (EO). “As we stand on the cleared lands, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective action. Our path to peace is paved with the dedication of every deminer, the support of the international community, and the strength of those who’ve suffered. Together, we’re not just clearing land; we’re reclaiming futures.”
This message resonates deeply with our mission at ARMAC, urging us to renew our commitment to a mine/EO-free ASEAN. Each Explosive Ordnance cleared, each piece of land returned to communities, and every life saved propels us closer to our goal.
Let us continue to stand united in our efforts to secure a safer tomorrow for all. Together, we can turn the vision of a mine-free future into a reality.
25
Aug
Inception Meeting, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
24 August 2023, Inception Meeting, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and Jang An University have signed the agreement since May 2023 to jointly implement the project called “Enhance Victim Assistance Programme in the ASEAN Member States” financed by the Government of the Republic of Korea through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund.
Between 23 and 24 August, the two parties had successfully kick off the first joint-activity, Inception Meeting, to prepare the organization of Regional Workshop on Enhance Victim Assistance Programme that is planned to be held on 24-26 October 2023 in Seoul, the Republic of Korea.
The two stakeholders had the opportunity exchange views and developed mutual understanding on the process of the organization of the Workshop. This includes the discussion on the Workshop’s technical contents, financial management, related administrative and logistic arrangements.
The Meeting was led by the Executive Director of ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth and Mr. Cho Jai Kook, Chairman of Jang An University. There were 9 people (4 females) from ARMAC and JU participated in the Meeting.
11
May
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), represented by ARMAC Executive Director, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth, and Jang An University (JU), represented by the Acting President, Ms. Kim Ji Young, signed an Agreement to implement the Project “Enhance Victim Assistance Program in the ASEAN Member States” or Victim Assistance (VA).
11 May 2023 – ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), represented by ARMAC Executive Director, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth, and Jang An University (JU), represented by the Acting President, Ms. Kim Ji Young, signed an Agreement to implement the Project “Enhance Victim Assistance Program in the ASEAN Member States” or Victim Assistance (VA).
The agreement aims to develop and strengthen the collaboration and cooperation in the area of Humanitarian Mine Action Program between ASEAN region and the Republic of Korea. The two entities would actively facilitate Humanitarian Mine Action-related joint programs, resource mobilization, and in support of Humanitarian Mine Action-related capacity development of relevant national institutions through technical cooperation.
The Ceremony was presided over by Mrs. Lauti Nia Astri, Charge d’Affaires a.i. of Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to the Kingdom of Cambodia, for and on behalf of the 2023 Chair and the Steering Committee of ARMAC. In addition, there were around 26 participants attended the event online and in-person from ARMAC Steering Committee (SC), dialogue partners, donors, victim assistance focal points, colleagues of JU, ARMAC, and related stakeholders.
06
Apr
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center wishes to wholeheartedly congratulate the Kingdom of Cambodia for another milestone and great achievement made in declaring the Province of Kampot (the 12th province) an anti-personnel landmine free province.
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center wishes to wholeheartedly congratulate the Kingdom of Cambodia for another milestone and great achievement made in declaring the Province of Kampot (the 12th province) an anti-personnel landmine free province. We, the ASEAN community, stand behind Cambodia in solidarity, ready to collaborate, and assist in ways we can. Human security and shared prosperity is not only an aspiration of every individual ASEAN citizen, but makes ASEAN stronger as a whole.
23
Nov
Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority commemorates its 30-year anniversary
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) joined the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) as it commemorates its 30-year anniversary in demining efforts in the country. The 2-day event which is held from 21 November to 22 November at Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre featured displays on demining progress and achievements to date, as well as materials, machinery and equipment, demonstrations of manual demining as well as the use of mine detection systems, and detection of mines and explosives by animals such as dogs and rats. Senior Minister and CMAA First Vice President Ly Thuch delivered the opening remarks where he reiterated the significant contribution of development partners, national and international operators and all stakeholders over the past 30 years to the government’s mission to clear the Kingdom of landmines and address the impacts of Cambodia’s wars of decades past. Daniel Craig, UN’s global advocate for the elimination of landmines and unexploded ordnance also issued a statement noting that more than one million Cambodians still live in areas where they are at risk due to landmines.
His Excellency and Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen is expected to deliver the closing remarks later today.
13
Nov
The Round Table Discussion on Women, Peace and Security
On 13 November 2022, ARMAC Executive Director, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth attended the Round Table Discussion on Women, Peace and Security hosted by the Embassy of Canada with the honorable presence of His Honorable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.
The event gathered key stakeholders in the humanitarian mine action in Cambodia and the region as represented by ARMAC, all of whom actively involved in promoting more leadership roles for women in the sector.
23
Apr
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Cambodia, and the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) formalized their longstanding relationship today in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Cambodia, and the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) formalized their longstanding relationship today in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony at ARMAC Headquarters in Phnom Penh. The MoU was signed by the Executive Director of ARMAC, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth, and the Resident Representative of UNDP in Cambodia, Ms. Alissar Chaker.
The memorandum outlines various areas of cooperation between the two organisations, including the regional dissemination of lessons learned and best practice arising from the ongoing UNDP-funded project ‘Clearing for Results’ being implemented in Cambodia. The memorandum also acknowledged ARMAC and UNDP’s common position on the harmonization of the 2030 Agenda and the imperative to Leave No One Behind within the ASEAN Member States, recognizing effective mine action as a necessary precursor to social-environmental-economic development, and peace.
Mr. Prum Suonpraseth stated during the ceremony that he was pleased to have formalized the relationship with UNDP in Cambodia, even though in practice, collaboration had already been occurring for a number of years. Ms. Alissar Chaker called ARMAC a ‘natural partner’ of UNDP and hoped that together they could showcase their work regionally.
21
Apr
ARMAC partners with the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation (SBCF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 21 April 2022 to formalize its intent to collaborate on “Mine Action Related Technical and Resources Mobilisation Cooperation”. The MOU allows SBCF and ARMAC to expand, deepen and facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experience and technical expertise for the benefits of the affected communities and stakeholder in the region. ARMAC Executive Director Mr. Prum Suonpraseth and SBCF Country Director Ms. Buth Rothna represented their respective organization.
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