The Regional Workshop concluded with an impactful field visit to the Physical Rehabilitation Centre (PRC) of Exceed Worldwide.
ASEAN REGIONAL MINE ACTION CENTER
21
Jan
The Regional Workshop concluded with an impactful field visit to the Physical Rehabilitation Centre (PRC) of Exceed Worldwide
Delegates observed the impactful work conducted at the Prosthetic and Orthotic School and the Physical Rehabilitation Workshop, where victims of explosive ordnance receive comprehensive care and support. They were guided through the rehabilitation processes, from registration to service delivery, and explored how innovative data management systems enhance patient outcomes.
The session concluded with a detailed briefing on Exceed Worldwide’s data recording and reporting systems, which ensure continuity of care and effective follow-up for victims of explosive ordnance.
A heartfelt thank you to Exceed Worldwide for hosting this visit and showcasing the vital link between innovative approaches and transformative victim assistance.
21
Jan
On the final morning of the Regional Workshop
On the final morning of the Regional Workshop on Promoting Collaboration and Cooperation of the Regional Victim Assistance Network through Data Management, participants focused on Finalizing the Regional Victim Assistance Guidelines.
Discussions revolved around final refinements, ensuring the guidelines reflect regional realities and global best practices. This collaborative effort marked the culmination of years of dedicated work under the Enhance Victim Assistance Programme, supported by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund.
The finalized guidelines will serve as a pivotal resource for ASEAN Member States, promoting cohesive and effective victim assistance strategies.
Stay tuned for updates on the insightful afternoon field visit to the Physical Rehabilitation Centre (PRC) of Exceed Worldwide!
21
Jan
Day 2 Highlights of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance Data Management
Day 2 Highlights of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance Data Management
Day 2 of The Regional Workshop on Promoting Collaboration and Cooperation of the Regional Victim Assistance Network through Data Management was a day of robust engagement, constructive dialogue, and strategic planning. Hosted by ARMAC in collaboration with CMAA, this workshop brings together participants from ASEAN Member States to strengthen support for explosive ordnance survivors.
The sessions today focused on three critical areas:
• Finalizing the Victim Assistance Network (VAN): Participants reviewed and reached consensus on the structure, objectives, and implementation strategy for the VAN, ensuring it will serve as a sustainable platform for regional collaboration.
• Finalizing the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline: Participants engaged in group discussions to refine the guidelines, ensuring they reflect regional priorities and global best practices.
• Thematic Subgroup Discussions: Five groups tackled essential themes, including data accuracy, standardization, sharing, and strategies to address management gaps.
Key takeaways included innovative solutions like developing a regional data template, using secure digital platforms, and enhancing trust through ARMAC-facilitated data-sharing agreements.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to drive impactful change in victim assistance across ASEAN.
15
Jan
Welcoming Malaysia as the New Chair of ARMAC in 2025!
Welcoming Malaysia as the New Chair of ARMAC in 2025!
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) is proud to welcome Malaysia as the Chair of the Steering Committee of ARMAC for 2025. We look forward to Malaysia’s leadership and vision in steering ARMAC’s mission to address the challenges of landmines and explosive remnants of war across the ASEAN region.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lao People’s Democratic Republic for their exceptional Chairmanship in 2024, which laid a strong foundation for ARMAC’s ongoing initiatives. Your dedication and contributions have been invaluable in advancing regional collaboration and victim assistance.
Under Malaysia’s Chairmanship, we are confident that ARMAC will continue to build on this progress, fostering greater cooperation and ensuring impactful outcomes for a safer and more resilient ASEAN.
Together, let us work toward a future free from the risks of mines and explosive ordnance, promoting peace, security, and development for all.
02
Jan
ASEAN Collaboration on Victim Assistance Strengthened by Data Innovation
ASEAN Collaboration on Victim Assistance Strengthened by Data Innovation
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Session 2 of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance shone a spotlight on best practices and innovative data management strategies from across the ASEAN region. Expert presenters from Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Korea and APOPO shared their approaches to ensuring survivors of explosive ordnance receive timely and effective support.
Highlights included:
• Cambodia’s CMAA showcased its comprehensive data system linking victim profiles with rehabilitation services, enabling more targeted interventions for survivors.
•Myanmar’s Department of Rehabilitation emphasized the critical role of integrated support systems, which bridge medical care, social welfare, and vocational training for survivors.
•Vietnam’s MOLISA demonstrated its advancements in disability registration and information systems, empowering UXO victims with timely rehabilitation and community integration.
• Korea presented state-of-the-art digital tools and frameworks that can enhance data accuracy and inclusivity in victim assistance programs region-wide.
•APOPO provided an engaging demonstration of their data systems for operational coordination in victim support.
Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, exchanging knowledge and identifying strategies to refine victim assistance frameworks. The session laid the groundwork for strengthening regional collaboration and enhancing the capacity to address survivor needs effectively.
Stay tuned for updates as the workshop continues to focus on finalizing the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline and fostering greater collaboration across ASEAN.
02
Jan
Highlights from our Regional Workshop: Strengthening Victim Assistance Networks
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
Phnom Penh, Cambodia — The first session of the Regional Workshop on Victim Assistance brought together leaders from across ASEAN to share strategies for strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and advancing data management systems.
– Thailand-Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) of Ministry of Social Development and Human Security: Focused on integrating disability data with victim assistance, highlighting initiatives like the “One-Stop Service” system and assistive devices for empowering survivors.
– Vietnam (VNMAC): Stressed the importance of standardized data platforms like IMSMA NG and policies for integrating victim assistance into national frameworks.
– Lao PDR (NRA): Addressed gaps in localizing UXO victim data and emphasized capacity building to ensure accurate and actionable data collection.
-Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC): Advocated for improved interagency coordination and innovative approaches to addressing victim needs at the grassroots level.
The session underscored the critical role of collaboration, with participants agreeing on the need for standardized tools and inclusive policies to ensure no survivor is left behind.
The day began with panel discussions on strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and concluded with lively exchanges of best practices on data management for survivor support. Participants left with key documents to review, ensuring tomorrow’s sessions are action-focused and productive.
Stay tuned for more highlights as the workshop continues!
02
Jan
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
ARMAC Champions Data-Driven Solutions for Victim Assistance Across ASEAN
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 17 December 2024, marked the opening of the Regional Workshop on Promoting Collaboration and Cooperation in Victim Assistance through Data Management for ASEAN Member States at the prestigious Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Co-hosted by the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), this workshop brings together distinguished leaders, experts, and advocates to refine regional collaboration and finalize the Regional Victim Assistance Guideline. The initiative is proudly supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC, highlighted the significance of this workshop, stating:
“This gathering reflects the spirit of unity, compassion, and resilience that defines ASEAN. Together, we are not just addressing the technical challenges but ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard, their dignity restored, and their futures rebuilt.”
Representing the Republic of Korea, Ms. Baek Sun-woo, First Secretary of the Embassy of Korea to Cambodia, shared a message on behalf of Ambassador H.E. Mr. Park Jung-wook. She underscored the Republic of Korea’s steadfast commitment to regional humanitarian efforts, emphasizing that the ASEAN-Korea partnership serves as a global model for impactful collaboration.
H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of CMAA, delivered a powerful keynote address, commending ASEAN’s collective leadership and Cambodia’s role in global mine action. He reminded participants:
“Let us show the world what it truly means to honor the rights, dignity, and courage of survivors by setting a new benchmark in victim assistance and collaboration.”
The day began with panel discussions on strengthening the Victim Assistance Network (VAN) and concluded with lively exchanges of best practices on data management for survivor support. Participants left with key documents to review, ensuring tomorrow’s sessions are action-focused and productive.
This workshop is more than a meeting—it is a commitment to a future where no survivor is left behind. Together, ASEAN nations are creating a legacy of resilience, innovation, and collaboration.
Stay tuned for more updates from the workshop as we work towards transforming victim assistance across ASEAN.
05
Nov
National Consultative Workshop on Victim Assistance
Empowering Victims of Explosive Ordnance in Thailand 
| National Consultative Workshop on Victim Assistance
| National Consultative Workshop on Victim AssistanceToday, ARMAC held a powerful National Consultative Workshop in Thailand, bringing together national and international experts, government representatives, and dedicated partners to advance critical support for victims of explosive ordnance (EO). With survivors’ voices at the center, this workshop explored vital topics such as medical care, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support to bridge essential gaps in victim assistance.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners from the Department of ASEAN Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Thailand Mine Action Center, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the Joint Civil Affairs of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, and esteemed consultants, including Dr. Pornpimon Prasongporn and her team. We are honored to work alongside our colleagues from Yonsei University, SingHealth, and Ms. Leila El Ali from Lebanon in this collaborative effort.
A special thank you to the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, whose generous support has made this project possible. Together, we’re creating an empowered, resilient, and inclusive future for all victims and survivors across ASEAN.
Stay tuned for more updates on our continued journey toward making a tangible difference in the lives of EO survivors across the region.
22
Oct
National Consultation Workshop on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims in Myanmar
National Consultation Workshop on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs Support for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims in Myanmar
Last week, ARMAC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, held a significant National Consultation Workshop in Nay Pyi Taw, focusing on the physical rehabilitation and mental health needs of EO victims.
The workshop, part of ARMAC’s Enhance Victim Assistance Programme, supported by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, brought together key stakeholders from various ministries, international organizations, and local partners. Participants discussed gaps in current services and explored ways to strengthen support for victims, particularly in rehabilitation, mental health care, and social reintegration.
In her opening remarks, ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Rothna Buth emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure that no victim of explosive ordnance is left behind, noting: “We are here to listen, learn, and work together to address the challenges and ensure that survivors can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
The Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement, His Excellency Dr. Soe Win, also highlighted the importance of collaboration and the role Myanmar plays in supporting victims through its mine risk education and rehabilitation programs. His speech reminded everyone of the enduring impact of explosive ordnance on individuals, families, and communities across the region.
A heartfelt thank you to all our partners, particularly the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund and AKPMT, for making this initiative possible, and to the many ministries and organizations present today. Together, we take critical steps toward ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the care and support they deserve.
25
Sep
Day 5: Closing Ceremony and Looking Ahead
Day 5: Closing Ceremony and Looking Ahead
What a remarkable week it has been! 
Today, we concluded ARMAC’s sixth Psychosocial Support Training of Trainers with an inspiring closing ceremony.
Today, we concluded ARMAC’s sixth Psychosocial Support Training of Trainers with an inspiring closing ceremony.We were honored to hear from distinguished guests, including Mr. Kim Hyun Soo, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to the Kingdom of Cambodia; H.E. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the Kingdom of Cambodia and Chairman of the Steering Committee of ARMAC; and Prof. Tan Hiang Khoon, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Future Health System), SGH, Group Director, International Collaboration Office, Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), and Director, SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute.
Mr. Kim Hyun Soo shared his thoughts on the training’s impact: “Our collaboration on the Enhanced Victim Assistance Programme in the ASEAN Member States represents a collective effort to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by communities affected by explosive ordnance. Korea is honored to stand with you in this endeavor and remains steadfast in its support.” He added, “The knowledge and skills you have acquired will foster recovery and resilience for countless individuals. Remember, what you do goes beyond helping individual victims; it’s about creating a world where we can live together with them.”
On behalf of H.E. Buakeo Phumvongsay, Chair of ARMAC’s Steering Committee, Mr. Soukinda Ounavong, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Lao PDR, added: “The commitment shown throughout this training is a testament to our shared goal of enhancing support for survivors and reinforcing our regional cooperation.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Korea and the ASEAN Korean Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for their generous support, which has been instrumental in making this impactful project possible.
Our trainees—now equipped with advanced skills in trauma care and mental health support—will go on to train others in their home countries, multiplying the impact of this training. Together, we are creating a brighter future for landmine survivors across ASEAN.
Prof. Tan Hiang Khoon, Deputy CEO of SingHealth, expressed optimism for the future: “The psychosocial support that we have integrated into this program is not just a component, but a lifeline for the survivors and their families, helping them reclaim their lives and rebuild their futures.”
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