To run the operations, AHA center uses a mandatory fund, paid $30,000 annually by
member countries, to manage the resources for supporting the implementation of
AADMER related activities, for assisting the affected country in disaster relief and
emergency response, and for use in the deployment of ERAT to the affected countries.
This contribution reflects a commitment to regional collaborative operation. At the
same time, Article 24 of AADMER requires ASEAN member countries to establish the
ASEAN Disaster Management and Emergency Relief Fund (AADMER Fund) on a
voluntary basis. Further, it allows the countries to mobilize additional resources from
relevant international organizations. Setting up the AADMER Fund is the right
initiative. Although regional collaboration is agreed to be mutually beneficial to all
member countries, the implementation, activities, progress, and concrete delivery of
services need adequate budgets to help facilitate in disaster management. Because of the
voluntary basis, the AADMER Fund does not expect equal contributions from member
countries. Countries with less capacity to manage disasters in their jurisdiction typically
commit more and faster funding than do countries with a greater capacity to cover their
disaster costs. It is not a surprise that in countries that consider disasters less of a threat,
voluntary contributions will be less necessary and more of a luxury.