ASEAN Bolsters Regional Cooperation Against Climate Disaster Risks

The Southeast Asian bloc ASEAN is intensifying its efforts to combat the escalating risks posed by natural disasters and climate change. ASEAN Foundation Executive Director Piti Srisangnam highlighted the region's vulnerability, noting that in 2022 alone, ASEAN faced approximately 700 reported disasters affecting four million people.

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In 2022 alone, ASEAN experienced about 700 reported disasters affecting approximately four million people across the region.

To expedite disaster relief, ASEAN is enhancing its emergency logistics systems. A key initiative is the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA), which strategically positions emergency supplies for rapid distribution. The region also regularly conducts emergency simulation exercises and implements training programs for disaster management practitioners to boost member states' capacities.

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Climate change and disaster resilience are not abstract policy discussions.

These measures are underpinned by broader policy commitments, including the ASEAN-UN Joint Strategic Action Plan on Disaster Management 2021-2025. ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General Nararya Sanggramawijaya Soeprapto acknowledged the unpredictable nature of current climate patterns, likening Indonesia's weather to a "gado-gado" salad, emphasizing the need for robust disaster resilience strategies. The collective actions aim to foster a more secure, resilient, and sustainable future for Southeast Asia.

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In the past, the climate was much easier to predict. Now, I think in Indonesia, it's a bit mixed like 'gado-gado'.