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05 Apr
ARMAC Marks International Day for Mine Awareness with “Rising Stronger: Building Resilience in Mine-Affected Regions”
Siem Reap, Cambodia – April 8, 2024 – The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), a center of excellence under ASEAN political-security cooperation, is dedicated to addressing landmines and explosive remnants of war across ASEAN Member States. ARMAC celebrated the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action with the theme “Rising Stronger: Building Resilience in Mine-Affected Regions.”
This year’s theme symbolizes the collective commitment of the ASEAN Member States to confront the challenges posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) across the region and beyond.
The International Day for Mine Awareness is committed to showcasing ongoing efforts and progress in mine eradication and highlighting the critical importance of resilience in areas impacted by landmines. It serves as a symbol of hope and action, aligning closely with ARMAC’s mission, guided by the leadership of Executive Director, Ms. Rothna Buth.
Held between April 3rd to 6th, the event gathered a diverse group of participants from the mine action community, including organizations specializing in mine clearance, landmine survivors, policymakers, and public supporters of mine action initiatives.
The four-day event, sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, boasted an extensive agenda of activities. Highlights included internal discussions facilitated by ARMAC, tours of the APOPO Visitor Center, participation in the International Day for Mine Awareness event hosted by CMAA, visits to minefields being cleared by HALO Trust, a tour of the CMAC Peace Museum, and a strategic reflection session led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Sister Denise Coghlan.
The event also featured appearances by H.E. Mr. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the Kingdom of Cambodia, and
Chairman of the Steering Committee of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC), and H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister, First Vice President of CMAA and President of the Ottawa Convention 2024, representative of ASEAN memebers, representatives of Japan, Prince Foundation, among other esteemed guests.
Under Ms. Buth’s direction, the mission places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, gender equality, and the empowerment of women in the fields of humanitarian demining and explosive ordnance disposal.
Ms. Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, stated, “In the face of adversity, we rise stronger together. Our dedication to mine action extends beyond clearing landmines; it is about cultivating resilient communities and creating a future untouched by the scars of conflict.”
Looking ahead, this event is poised to influence future mine action initiatives, fostering insights and strategic discussions among participants. It represents not merely a celebration but a critical juncture for ARMAC to push forward its objectives of ensuring safety, development, and resilience in mine-affected areas.
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About ARMAC:
Headquartered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, ARMAC plays a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating cooperation among ASEAN Member States and various stakeholders to tackle the challenges presented by landmines and explosive remnants of war. ARMAC is committed to magnifying its impact throughout the region, furthering its mission towards a safer and more prosperous Southeast Asia.
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/

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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.

04 Apr
COMMEMORATION OF INTERNATIONAL MINE AWARENESS AND ASSISTANCE IN MINE ACTION DAY IN THE ASEAN REGION– 4 APRIL 2022

Press Release

 

The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC), with support from the Government of Japan, hosted an event to commemorate International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action on 4 April 2022 in Phnom Penh.  The event commenced with a knowledge sharing session, with international experts discussing innovations in the field of Explosive Ordnance Risk Education or EORE. World Education, Mine Mark Foundation and MAG International presented innovative projects in the field.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

At the conclusion of workshop, distinguished guests of the diplomatic community assembled to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.  In her keynote address, Her Excellency Mrs. Eat Sophea, Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia underscored that, “the campaign to enhance mine awareness remain a crucial tool not only to educate people of their danger and long-term impacts to affected communities, but also to maintain mine-free and victim assistance effort high on the national and international agendas”.

His Excellency Mr. Chiba Akira, Ambassador of Japan to the ASEAN also addressed the event, highlighting the nearly 50 years of cooperation between Japan and ASEAN and the support that Japan has afforded both to ARMAC and broader mine action efforts within Cambodia and the region.  He emphasized the importance of regional approaches and international organizations, given the current turbulence in international relations.  He said: The political and security dynamics around the world have been rapidly changing, and ASEAN has become more important than ever in coping with challenges we face.

Diplomatic representatives from ASEAN member states also addressed the event, with His Excellency Mr. U Thit Linn Ohn, Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and His Excellency Mr. Panyarak Poolthup, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Thailand, both highlighting achievements and progress made in the mine action field that have recently been accomplished within their respective states. Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority Secretary General Mr. Prum Sophakmonkol spoke on behalf of Cambodia The International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is marked annually on 4 April across the world.  In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly called on all states to commemorate this date and continue their efforts to support the development of national mine-action capacities in countries affected by mines and explosive remnants of war. Explosive ordnance (EO) unfortunately still constitutes a serious threat to the safety, health and lives of the civilian population, and an impediment to social and economic development in five of the ten ASEAN Member States.

 

24 Feb
Cambodia’s National Mine Awareness Day
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center takes pleasure in participating in Cambodia’s National Mine Awareness Day. More than ever, raising awareness on the issue of Mine Action has become of utmost importance. In the last 3 years, the ARMAC has been at the forefront of raising awareness, building partnerships and supporting the work of Cambodia as evidenced by the signing of agreements with the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, and our forthcoming agreements with country stakeholders.
Today’s celebration reminds us of our obligations and commitments to strengthen our work together for better results in mine action. In this way, we are assured of achieving vision 2025 for landmine free Cambodia in line with its 18 SDG.
09 Dec
MoU Signing Ceremony between ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center and Singapore Health Services “Enhance Victim Assistance Programme in the ASEAN Member States”

SingHealth partners with ARMAC to provide psychosocial trainings in mine/ERW-affected ASEAN member states

The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and Singapore Health Services (SingHealth) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 December 2021 to work together on the project, ‘Enhance Victim Assistance Programme in the ASEAN Member States’. The MoU will allow SingHealth to conduct needs assessment on psychosocial supports and provide psychosocial trainings to landmine and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) victims in affected ASEAN Member States such as Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam. ARMAC Executive Director Mr. Prum Suonpraseth and SingHealth Group Director of the International Collaboration Office Professor Tan Hiang Khoon signed the MoU. The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Mr. Pengiran Kasmirhan Pengiran Tahir, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Brunei Darussalam to the Kingdom of Cambodia, and Chair of ARMAC Steering Committee

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