BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

CARRYING out community-based activities on disaster management is one of the ways to promote resilient societies in the region.

This was said by Chairperson of ASEAN Disaster Management Committee Colonel (Rtd) Pg Dato Paduka Hj Rosli Pg Hj Chuchu during an event to commemorate the ASEAN Day for Disaster Management at the Times Square Shopping Centre yesterday.

He said through celebrations such as the ASEAN Day for Disaster Management, regional communities can become familiar with their roles as frontliners in the immediate aftermath of disasters, as well as in long term recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

“With the right knowledge, the communities can work together and collaborate in realising a disaster resilient community.

“At the same time, our communities would realise their important role in creating a disaster resilient community,” he added.

The chairperson said it is a known fact that ASEAN is vulnerable to all kinds of natural disasters, prompting necessary actions to be taken to reduce the risks and impact.

Commenting on the ASEAN Disaster Management Day celebration, Colonel (Rtd) Dato Paduka Hj Rosli said the event was held in support of the global campaign to reduce disaster risks, which was initiated by the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.

He further said that since 2005, ASEAN countries have observed the commemoration by carrying out numerous activities promoting the creation of disaster resilient communities.

“In the past, the regional celebration was always celebrated in Bangkok, Thailand. This year, however, it is an honour and privilege (for Brunei) to host this year’s ASEAN Day for Disaster Management,” he said.

“All in all, ASEAN Day for Disaster Management contributes to the national and regional disaster resilience and sustainable development through information dissemination and outreach campaigns.”

The Brunei Times