ASEAN set up a disaster relief center for the region

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has established the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Center (AHA) in Jakarta to enhance its ability to coordinate and improve disaster relief efforts in the region.

The establishment of the AHA center is part of the joint efforts of ASEAN Member States to build the ASEAN Community by 2015.

Flooding scene in Thailand

Speaking after the AHA's first meeting on March 16, AHA Said Faisal CEO said the center has the function to manage and monitor all disaster-related information in the area for clearance. promptly report to member countries, and coordinate joint relief efforts both inside and outside the region whenever disaster strikes.

During the meeting, representatives of ASEAN member countries also agreed on a common mode of operation in disaster management.

It is expected that AHA's operating fund will be contributed by ASEAN member countries at a cost of USD 30,000 per year.

In addition, the AHA also receives additional donations and donations from partners outside ASEAN such as the US, Japan, the European Union (EU), New Zealand and Australia.

Of these, some countries agreed to provide financial support, the rest supported by helping to train employees or sending experts to help when needed.