“Let us reaffirm our shared commitment to build an ASEAN that is disaster-ready, people-centred and globally respected for its leadership in resilience.

“Resilience is not only about systems and technology, it is about people. It must be holistic, inclusive, and sustainable, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.

He was delivering the country statement at the 13th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management and the 14th Conference of the Parties to the AADMER and Related Meetings here on Wednesday.

Ahmad Zahid also announced that Malaysia will provide RM420,000  (US$100,000) to the ASEAN Disaster Management and Emergency Relief Fund to support its initiatives. 

He also proposed three key pillars for a more comprehensive disaster mitigation plan, which encompasses innovation and technology, partnership and solidarity, and inclusivity and community resilience.

“We must harness data, artificial intelligence and digital platforms to enhance anticipatory action and early warning systems to anticipate risks before they become tragedies.

“Governments cannot do this alone. We need civil society, the private sector and global partners to walk alongside us.

“We must empower local leadership, give space to gender perspectives and protect those who are most vulnerable,” he said. 

He also ensured regional governments that Malaysia is ready to work hand-in-hand with all member states to advance this vision —  towards an ASEAN that saves lives, reduces suffering and safeguards livelihoods.

He voiced this critical message when Southeast Asia is facing a myriad of natural disasters from typhoons, earthquakes and droughts, which are denting economic growth, destroying farmers’ livelihoods and vital infrastructures.

While the region is blessed with an abundance of natural resources from minerals to gas and crude oil, it is also blighted with natural hazards that could choke economic prosperity for about 670 million people. 

In his welcoming remarks, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn said Southeast Asia is a region of remarkable diversity and dynamism, yet it also ranks among the most disaster-prone in the world.

“The risks we face are growing more complex. Climate change is driving more frequent and severe natural disasters, while rapid urbanisation and technological vulnerabilities add new dimensions of risk,” he said. 

ASEAN leaders are bolstering natural risk management mechanisms as farmers and rural communities from Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and Vietnam continue to suffer from the weather-related calamities year after year, pushing thousands into poverty.

“We must also continue to build capacity at the national and local levels— to help communities prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters and emergencies more effectively. 

“Long-term investments in resilience and protection will help reduce disaster impacts and safeguard lives, livelihoods and development progress,” said Kim Hourn.

-- BERNAMA