6.As we all know, disaster response is a function of preparedness. The effectiveness of our disaster response depends on the quality of our preparedness. Emergency preparedness and responsiveness is therefore a programme thrust of ASEAN
7. “ASEAN standby arrangements” is being compiled based on earmarked assets and capacities of ASEAN Member Countries. A network of pre-designated areas will be established as entry points to speed up movement of relief items across borders. ASEAN is also committed to conduct regional simulation exercises regularly to enhance our preparedness and maintain the applicability of our standard operating procedures. The first-ever ASEAN regional disaster emergency response simulation exercise
8. assisting teams from the ASEAN Member Countries were among the first to respond to the earthquake, bringing in search and rescue teams, as well as medical and other emergency ASEAN Member were at various locations in Yogyakarta and Central Java providing medical assistance and relief efforts to the earthquake victims in close coordination Other ASEAN Member Countries, including Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam, sent food supplies and cash contributions . These joint emergency response efforts were coordinated within the framework of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response.
9we are all vulnerable to disasters, both natural and man-made. Our preparedness and response plans are all being closely scrutinised. We need to examine how those crisis situations could be turned into opportunities. Crises force us to think, but we need to think one step ahead and act two steps ahead. Otherwise, we will stay where we were before. Policy leaders and the global community at large should also use the momentum provided by the mega disasters to rebound, build back better, and be more resilient than ever. Partnership is essential in managing the impact of disasters. Lastly, it is the challenge for all of us to seize the opportunity to strengthen, on a long-term basis, the state of our disaster preparedness, and take precautionary measures to prevent, monitor and mitigate disasters