ARMAC Engages in Regional Dialogue on Humanitarian Mine Action
ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
16
Dec
ARMAC Engages in Regional Dialogue on Humanitarian Mine Action
Ms. Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, participated in the 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts’ Working Group on Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) from December 9-12, 2024, in Vang Vieng, Lao PDR.
This significant meeting, co-chaired by Lao PDR and the Russian Federation, provided a platform for discussing solutions to the challenges posed by explosive remnants of war (ERW). ARMAC highlighted its ongoing efforts in mine action, focusing on regional cooperation to create safer, mine-free communities across ASEAN.
Key Contributions by ARMAC:
– Presented progress and achievements in mine action.
– Promoted capacity-building and best practices in the field. -Fostered stronger collaboration among regional and international partners.
ARMAC is dedicated to advancing humanitarian mine action, supporting victims, and contributing to sustainable development across the region.
Together, we move closer to a mine-free ASEAN!
07
Nov
Last Saturday, as we visited survivors and their families in Thailand’s explosive ordnance (EO) affected areas
“Last Saturday, as we visited survivors and their families in Thailand’s explosive ordnance (EO) affected areas, we were deeply moved by the resilience and strength shown by each individual. Behind every statistic lies a personal story—a story of survival, courage, and hope amid life-altering challenges.”
The ARMAC team, joined by our dedicated partners from SingHealth, Prof. Cho Jai Kook from Yonsei University, Ms. Leila El Ali -physiologist, and our national consultant Dr. Pornpimon Prasongporn, listened firsthand to these accounts. Together, we’re not just here to document the journey of survivors but to act on it, understanding the true scope of their needs in order to bring tailored support and sustainable solutions to Thailand and beyond.
This field visit underscores our commitment to a future where every survivor has access to essential care and the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity. Our work is strengthened by the tireless support of the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, making this journey toward recovery and inclusion possible.
“Each story reminds us why we’re here—to ensure that no survivor’s journey is walked alone. Together, we are dedicated to a region where every survivor finds healing, empowerment, and a hopeful path forward.”
07
Nov
The Voice of Victims Journey Begins: A Story of Resilience, Hope, and Unity Across ASEAN
The Voice of Victims Journey Begins: A Story of Resilience, Hope, and Unity Across ASEAN
Today, we are honored to launch the “Voice of Victims” journey, a project dedicated to amplifying the voices of survivors of explosive ordnance (EO) in ASEAN countries. This initiative begins in Thailand and will continue through Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, capturing the experiences, challenges, and resilience of EO survivors who have been impacted by the legacy of explosive remnants of war.
Listening to their stories helps us remember why the work of ASEAN Member States and the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is so vital. The voices of these survivors remind us not only of the human cost of conflict but of the power of resilience and the importance of community and support. By sharing their journeys, we aim to shine a light on both the challenges they continue to face and the spirit of hope and strength that sustains them.
A heartfelt thank you to the ASEAN-Korean Cooperation Fund, whose support has been instrumental in making this project a reality. We are also deeply grateful to the Prince Foundation for their remarkable team, who are capturing these stories with care and dedication. Together, we are committed to building a safer, more inclusive future for all.
Stay tuned as we share the voices of these incredible individuals, whose courage and tenacity inspire us to continue our mission with renewed purpose.
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.
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.
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.
04
Sep
ARMAC Executive Director Meets with New Country Directors of Norwegian People’s Aid in Cambodia and Thailand
ARMAC Executive Director Meets with New Country Directors of Norwegian People’s Aid in Cambodia and Thailand
ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth had the pleasure of meeting with Mr. Hans Risser, the new Country Director of Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) for Cambodia, and Mr. Jan Erik Stoa, the new Country Director of NPA for Thailand.
During this courtesy meeting, ARMAC extended congratulations to both Mr. Risser and Mr. Stoa on their new appointments. The discussion also touched upon the upcoming 5th Review Conference, focusing on shared efforts to tackle explosive ordnance issues in the region.
Norwegian People’s Aid is a global humanitarian organization working to support communities affected by conflict and landmines, with a long-standing commitment to mine action and explosive ordnance risk reduction.
We look forward to further strengthening our partnership to ensure safer communities in Cambodia, Thailand, and beyond!
03
Sep
ARMAC had the honor of meeting with the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), led by Lt. Gen. Nattawut Sabyeroop
ARMAC and ANAMA Explore Innovative Demining with APOPO in Siem Reap
On August 29, 2024, ARMAC Executive Director Miss Rothna Buth, along with Mr. Vugar Suleymanov, Chairman of the Board of the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA), visited the APOPO center in Siem Reap.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Mick Raine, Country Director of APOPO, who provided an insightful tour of the center’s activities.
Humanitarian deeming in Cambodia remains a complex and challenging task, requiring innovative solutions. Therefore, the delegation engaged in detailed discussions about APOPO’s unique operations in the country, focusing on the use of specially trained rats for landmine detection.
This visit included a briefing on APOPO’s clearance methodologies and the land release approach they implement in Cambodia.
The innovative techniques demonstrated by APOPO are a powerful reminder of the diverse methods needed to tackle the landmine problem.
While these approaches show great promise, continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential to enhance the effectiveness of mine action across the region.
This visit highlighted the importance of integrating new technologies and methodologies in our collective mission to create a safer, mine-free Cambodia.
03
Sep
ARMAC and ANAMA Strengthen Ties with Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC)
On August 27-28, 2024, ARMAC Executive Director Miss Rothna Buth, along with Mr. Vugar Suleymanov, Chairman of the Board of the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA), had the honor of visiting the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC).
The delegation was warmly received by H.E. Heng Ratana, Delegate of the Royal Government in charge as Director General of CMAC, who provided a comprehensive briefing on Cambodia’s demining situation and CMAC’s extensive operations across the country.
Cambodia remains heavily impacted by landmines, necessitating innovative and persistent efforts in demining. The delegation visited CMAC’s training center in Kampong Chhnang province, where H.E. Um Phumro, Deputy Director General of CMAC, introduced them to the center’s state-of-the-art training facilities.
The delegation learned about the structure of various training courses, including dog training and harvesting programs, essential for effective demining.
Ensuring the safety of communities goes beyond training; it requires on-the-ground operations. Therefore, on August 28, the delegation visited CMAC operations in Popel Commune, Soutr Nikom District, Siem Reap province, where they observed the multi-toolbox approach in action, including both animal and mechanical clearance methods.
Following the minefield visit, the delegation met with minefield beneficiaries and explored the Techo Peace Museum, which offers a rich documentary history of Cambodia’s clearance efforts.
This visit not only strengthened our partnership with CMAC but also deepened our understanding of the challenges and successes in Cambodia’s journey towards a mine-free future.
The path ahead is still fraught with obstacles. Therefore, our continued collaboration and commitment are crucial for achieving long-term peace and safety in the region.
02
Sep
Expanding Collaboration at Quang Tri Mine Action Center
Expanding Collaboration at Quang Tri Mine Action Center
ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth and Mr. Samir Poladov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA), continued their mission in Vietnam with a visit to the Quang Tri Mine Action Center (QTMAC).
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Dinh Ngoc Vu, Vice Director of QTMAC, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the center’s vital operations in one of Vietnam’s most heavily impacted regions.
The visit included a tour of the QTMAC Visitor Center, where representatives from PeaceTrees Vietnam and Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) shared insights into their collaborative efforts in demining, risk education, and victim assistance.
This exchange highlighted the crucial role of local and international partnerships in addressing the legacy of unexploded ordnance in Quang Tri province.
This visit underscores our shared commitment to building safer communities through effective mine action. By strengthening ties with regional centers like QTMAC, we are advancing our collective mission to reduce the threat of explosive remnants of war and promote long-term peace and development in affected areas.
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