The training provided by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) has been instrumental in the preparation of critical tasks, said Director of the National Disaster Management Centre Colonel (Rtd) Muhd Harrith bin Haji Muhd Jamin.
The benefit of the ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) programme cannot be overstated as it strengthens regional response mechanisms and fosters collaboration among ASEAN member countries in times of crisis, he said at the graduation ceremony of the ASEAN-ERAT induction course yesterday.
Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, participants are now equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to major disasters across the ASEAN region at the request of affected member states. Beyond the classroom, the course has also forged bonds between participants.
“Your continuous interactions will undoubtedly prove invaluable in future deployment missions and collaborative endeavours within the ASEAN framework,” said Colonel (Rtd) Muhd Harrith.
Extending appreciation to the AHA Centre for their dedication to organising another successful course, he noted that their commitment to training and readiness is commendable and vital for collective preparedness. He also acknowledged the facilitators from ASEAN-ERAT member states and the important support from partner organisations, from United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), Telecom Sans Frontieres (TSF) and MapACTION as well the government of Japan, regarded as the steadfast ally in the One ASEAN One Response initiative.
Following yesterday’s graduation, he shared that the ASEAN-ERAT Advisory Meeting awaits, providing a platform for reflection on lessons learnt and charting the course ahead for the ASEAN-ERAT project.
“Finally, as the host country and Chair of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management this year, this opportunity underscores our commitment to regional resilience and solidarity. I applaud all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this course a success,” he said. – Lyna Mohamad
