Whats New

Dialogue partners of ASEAN have launched many new cooperation initiatives and pledged financial support for the group at the 56th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and related meetings from 11-14 July 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia, according to H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN.

For its part, Japan agreed to contribute USD 100 million to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) 3.0 established in March 2023 to support projects in key areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

Secretary-General Kao said ASEAN and its dialogue partners are also promoting major plans, including activities to celebrate the 50th founding anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations.

Watch the inspiring journey of the ASEAN-ERAT’s first batch of trained Team Leaders as they complete the Level 3 Pilot Course in Bogor, Indonesia from 8-15 May 2023.

Now available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qqeeFc5qa3Q

The ASEAN-ERAT Level 3 (Team Leader) Pilot Course is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam Bùi Thanh Sơn continued to join his counterparts from ASEAN countries in attending the ASEAN+1 meetings with Japan, the Republic of Korea, the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom, Canada, and the ASEAN+3 meeting, within the framework of the 56th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM-56) in Jakarta, Indonesia, on 13 July 2023.

During the meetings, partner countries affirmed their appreciation for ASEAN and support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality. They pledged to assist ASEAN in building the ASEAN community and an open, inclusive, transparent, and rules-based regional architecture operating in accordance with international law.

Meanwhile, ASEAN and Japan agreed to deepen cooperation in various areas, especially in trade, investment, supply chain stability, and high-quality infrastructure development while expanding collaboration into new potential areas such as innovation, climate change response and green growth. The ASEAN highly valued Japan’s provision of a USD 3.34 billion loan to support post-pandemic recovery efforts in ASEAN and its additional contribution of USD100 million to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 13 July 2023, the ASEAN-Japan Foreign Minsters’ Meeting was held in Jakarta, Indonesia. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan HAYASHI Yoshimasa attended and co-chaired the meeting with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai.

On the review of ASEAN-Japan cooperation and its future direction, Deputy Prime Minister Don of Thailand and Ministers of other countries mentioned that Japan’s efforts under the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) has been contributing to the progress of efforts under the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and expressed their appreciation for Japan’s cooperation in many areas and their hope that this year’s Commemorative Summit will be an opportunity to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations.

In response, the overview of Minister Hayashi’s remarks is as follows:

i) Japan has been consistently supporting ASEAN centrality and unity, and has implemented many concrete cooperation projects in line with four priority areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP);

ii) Japan has been taking initiatives, including energy transition assistance through the “Asia Zero Emission Community” initiative, the establishment of ERIA’s Centre for Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy, and support for the establishment and operationalization of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases. In the ‘‘New Plan for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)’’announced by Prime Minister KISHIDA in March, he clearly positioned the Southeast Asia as an important region. He also announced a new contribution of USD 100 million to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), and a renewal of the Japan-ASEAN Connectivity Initiative;

iii) Japan would like to further promote attractive cultural, people-to-people, and intellectual exchange such as JENESYS and the “WA Project”.

Read also the Chairman’s statement here.

Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn attended the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference with Japan held in Jakarta this afternoon. The meeting reviewed the progress of ASEAN-Japan cooperation in light of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation this year. The meeting also discussed the establishment of an ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the key outcomes and deliverables of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit scheduled in Tokyo later this year.

The Jakarta Post published an article contributed by Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan on the occasion of the 56th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Jakarta.

In the article, Minister Hayashi reiterates Japan’s new plan for the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) which shares its fundamental principles with the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) adopted by ASEAN and a new contribution of USD 100 million to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), which has been supporting ASEAN countries in their efforts toward regional integration and community building.

In addition, Minister Hayashi also mentioned Japan and ASEAN have developed a relationship not only as major trade and investment partners but also as true friends with “heart-to-heart” relations built through a wide range of people-to-people exchange, one of which is JENESYS programme which has sent and invited approximately 47,000 people to and from ASEAN countries and Japan since 2007.

On 5 July 2023, Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn interacted with the participants of the Special Youth Forum in a luncheon hosted by the Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Justice of Japan. They exchanged views on the participation and the roles of the ASEAN-Japan youth in shaping the future of ASEAN-Japan cooperation and partnership, in particular, in advancing the rule of law and justice.

The ASEAN-Japan Special Youth Forum for Promoting the Rule of Law is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

At the invitation of Japan Minister of Justice SAITO Ken, Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn will attend the ASEAN-Japan Special Meeting of Justice Ministers (AJSMJ), which will be held on 6-7 July 2023 in Tokyo, Japan. The visit is expected to strengthen ASEAN-Japan cooperation and partnership on the rule of law and justice. During this special meeting, SG Dr Kao will attend various related event such as the Special Youth Forum which aims to promote the role of ASEAN and Japanese youth in the area of rule of law, human rights and justice.

As ASEAN and Japan celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, the convening of AJSMJ and related events demonstrates the strong commitment of both sides to further advance ASEAN-Japan cooperation on shared fundamental values such as the rule of law and respect for human rights, and justice, among others, built on the strong foundations of ASEAN-Japan Strategic Partnership.

The ASEAN-Japan Special Youth Forum for Promoting the Rule of Law is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Annual Report for the year 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the remarkable efforts and achievements of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in strengthening resilience and ensuring an enduring recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the face of unprecedented global crises, ASEAN reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to an open, inclusive and rules-based trading system as a pivotal means to boost trade and investment while solidifying ASEAN as the central hub for regional supply chains. ASEAN has achieved key milestones such as commencement of the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement. ASEAN is also negotiating an FTA with Canada and exploring possibilities of strengthening existing FTAs including the ASEAN – Korea FTA and ASEAN – Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP).

On ASEAN Cooperation Projects and Programmes, as of March 2023 the cumulative value of ASEAN Cooperation Projects and Programmes (ACP) submitted since 2009 totalled USD 1,837,983,308, of which USD 1,763,874,164 were utilised (on-going, implemented, or completed) and USD 74,109,143 are in process. The project implementation was made possible with financial and technical support from ASEAN Dialogue Partners, including Japan, among others JENESYS programmes to support education and youth related initiatives, and Mangrove Ecosystem Management in the ASEAN Region to support initiative on food and agriculture. Under the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan IV (2021-2025), a Japanese-funded project, Sharing Best Practices on the Development and Promotion of On-Farm Irrigation Management among the Water-User Groups in CLMV Countries, was completed in December 2022.

In relation to the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN launched a Special Page showcasing videos, related websites, commemorative events, and links to Governments and Agencies that support the ASEAN and Japan cooperation.

Visit the page to get insightful information!

As we are now half-way through the year 2023 and in the course of the series of meetings and events, discussions are in full swing on the directions and contents of new ASEAN-Japan cooperation projects to be agreed and announced at the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit at the end of the year. In this edition, Ambassador KIYA Masahiko introduces these meetings and events and discuss on how to formulate the ASEAN-Japan cooperation projects.

Based on several reports and announcements, such as the report compiled by Expert Panel for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) Mainstreaming Support announced by the Foreign Minister HAYASHI in February, a New Plan for a Free Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and an additional new USD 100 million contribution to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) announced by Prime Minister KISHIDA in March, “Future of Asia” speech by Prime Minister Kishida in May, and the Interim Report on ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Vision released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in June, we need to form cooperation projects to materialise the new vision in various fields with ASEAN.

In doing so, it is important to recognise ASEAN’s many partners and to make most of its own strengths to realise maximum impact. For the moment, it is important for Japan to play the role of a major partner based on its long-standing trust, technology and experience, with a focus on key issues in respective sectors, and to promote cooperation in an open manner in coordination with many other partners, with ASEAN at the centre.

Another batch of relief items from the people of ASEAN to the people of Myanmar affected by Tropical Cyclone MOCHA arrived in Yangon on 26 June 2023. The items include emergency shelter tool kits and a manual water filtration system worth USD 37,800 in value. They were transported from Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) warehouse in Subang, Malaysia, by Indonesia’s military aircraft.

To date, through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), ASEAN has mobilised ten batches of humanitarian support for Myanmar with a total value of around USD 1.6 million.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) has been supporting DELSA since its establishment in 2012.

Read the full statement here.

Congratulations to the 25 mentees of the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) – Brunei! They graduated on 21 June 2023 after successfully completing the 10 AMEN modules, undergoing coaching sessions and presenting their business improvement plans. The graduation ceremony took place at the Main Auditorium of D&T Building, Kg Anggerek Desa, Brunei Darussalam and was conducted face-to-face, allowing for a meaningful and more personal celebration.

Highlighting the significance of the event was the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Director of Enterprise Development at Darussalam Enterprise (DARe) Ms. Lela Suhailee, General Manager of PDS Abattoir, ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) member Mr. Sabirin Othman, and AMEN Project Executive Director Engr. Merly Cruz.

The AMEN Brunei – Phase 2 is implemented by Shell LiveWire Brunei and Darussalam Enterprise with the support of the Japanese Government through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) – Philippines celebrates the mentees’ successful completion of the 10 modules and the presentation of their Business Improvement Plans as a testament to their hard work and dedication to their growth as entrepreneurs. The guidance provided by their mentors and coaches played a crucial role in the achievements of these milestones.

The AMEN Project has proven to be a valuable initiative in promoting MSME development not only in the Philippines but also in other ASEAN Member States. The presence of distinguished guests at the graduation ceremony, such as Mr. Virgilio Espeleta, AMEN AMI Consultant, Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the DTI- Regional Operations Group, Engr. Merly Cruz, AMEN Executive Director and Senior Adviser for MSME development at Go Negosyo, and Ms. Renea Tan, AMEN Regional Consultant, further underscores the program’s significance and impact.

During the ceremony, Mentors Josephine Romero and Armando Bartolome, along with mentees Carl Derrick Guanlao, Ma. Christina Valdez, and Marietta De la Torre, expressed their gratitude to the AMEN Project. They emphasised the merits of the program, which included the expansion of their knowledge, the growth of their professional network, and the creation of new business opportunities.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented in the Philippines by Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship – Go Negosyo and Department of Trade and Industry- Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Plus Three Ministerial Meeting on Youth, met on 21 June 2023 via videoconference for the ASEAN Plus Three Ministerial Meeting on Youth, under the co-chairpersonship of Malaysia and Republic of Korea.

The meeting note with satisfaction the contribution of activities implemented through the ASEAN Plus Three mechanism and those involving each respective Plus Three Countries to the progress made in advancing the ASEAN Work Plan on Youth 2021- 2025 and the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan 2023-2027, among others the engagement of ASEAN youths for meaningful youth participation through the ASEAN Volunteers funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the implementation of the international youth exchange programmes by Japanese government, including JENESYS programme.

Read the full statement here.

The same appreciation also stated on the Joint Ministerial Statement of the Eleventh ASEAN Meeting on Youth (AMMY XII).

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In conjunction to the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, JICE held a programme namely ASEAN-Japan Youth Leaders Exchange on 22-28 February 2023. Enjoy the atmosphere of JENESYS programme by watching the below video:

The voices of participants

NEC Corporation through NEC Corporation Thailand Ltd. (NEC Thailand) will conduct exercises with the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) in order to develop cybersecurity human resources for ASEAN Member States.

NEC, in collaboration with NEC Thailand and NEC Asia Pacific, will hold a variety of hands-on cybersecurity exercises with the AJCCBC, including recovery measures against cyberattacks, and incident response exercises for personnel from governments and critical infrastructure companies based in ASEAN Member States. These exercises will be held four times in Bangkok, Thailand by December 2023.

Moreover, new exercises will also be provided for trainers, aiming for them to conduct local exercises independently in the future.

Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) opened the AJCCBC in September 2018, a project supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to develop cybersecurity human resources in ASEAN countries.

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) – Singapore celebrates the graduation of 15 mentees who have completed the ten comprehensive modules and successfully presented their Business Improvement Plans with the guidance of their mentors and coaches.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Engr. Merly Cruz (AMEN PMO), Mr. Low Cheng York (Enterprise Singapore), Ms. Sock Joo Tan and Ms Hung Zi Yin (Singapore Business Federation). Their support for the program accentuates its importance and impact on MSME development in Singapore and all other ASEAN member-states.

During the ceremony, Mentors George Kong and Trina Teo together with Mentees Marylen Ramos-Velasco, Anna Lum and Zhennan Low highlighted in their testimonials the merits of the AMEN Project as it has broadened their knowledge, expanded their network and ushered in business opportunities.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 Singapore is implemented by Enterprise Singapore and Singapore Business Federation together with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Congratulations to the 24 mentees of the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network AMEN – Indonesia who graduated on 5 June after successfully completing the 10 modules mentorship program that is capped with the presentation of their Business Improvement Plans!

The esteemed guests presented at the ceremony included Mr. Bernardino Vega, Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), Ir. Siti Azizah, MBA, Deputy Minister of Entrepreneurship, Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs of Indonesia, and Engr. Merly Cruz, Executive Director of AMEN Project. The activity served to highlight the crucial role of Public-Private Partnerships in contributing to MSME development in all ASEAN Member States.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 in Indonesia is implemented by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Entrepreneurship and KADIN together with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Republic of the Philippines, in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), hosted the ASEAN Project Development Training for Philippine government officials from 6 – 8 June in Manila.

The training workshop is a joint effort of the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to ASEAN and ASEC.

A total of 61 Philippine government officials from various ministries and agencies participated in the three-day training. Through presentations, exercises, and group work, they were briefed by ASEC staff on developing regional project proposals and managing ASEAN cooperation projects using a results-based management approach.

At the end of the training, participants developed and presented eight regional project proposal drafts.

Representatives from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT) also attended. In their presentation, it was explained their priorities and procedures to access the fund. The training concluded with a plenary session led by representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Finance, Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines, and ASEC.

Take a trip down the 50-year memory lane of the ASEAN-Japan friendship in a commemorative exhibit at the ASEAN Secretariat! Officially opened yesterday by the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko, Permanent Representative of Thailand to ASEAN Ambassador Urawadee Sriphiromya, and Deputy Secretary-General for Political and Security Community Michael Tene, the exhibition will be on display until 16 June.

The 17th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee (AJJCC) Meeting took place today reaffirming both sides’ commitment to further advance their partnership to mark the 50th Year of Friendship and Cooperation.

Permanent Representative of Thailand to ASEAN Urawadee Sriphiromya and Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko co-chaired the meeting. Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States to ASEAN or their representatives and the Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political Security Community were in attendance.

The meeting noted the substantive progress made in ASEAN-Japan cooperation over the past year through the effective implementation of the Revised Implementation Plan of the 2013 Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.  All action lines in the plan have been addressed with multiple programmes and projects carried out in a wide range of areas.

The two sides exchanged views on developments in ASEAN and Japan and regional issues.  ASEAN welcomed Japan’s support for ASEAN’s efforts in mainstreaming the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). In this regard, the meeting welcomed the establishment of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) 3.0 with an initial contribution of US$100 million from Japan to support cooperation projects and activities relating to the implementation of the key areas of AOIP.

The ASEAN Mentorship Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) in Lao PDR celebrates the graduation of 23 mentees who have completed the ten modules, underwent coaching sessions and presented their business improvement plans in Vientiane, the country’s capital city. The commencement exercise was conducted face-to-face with the additional support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The dignitaries who graced the ceremony with their presence included the Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mr. Bounthueng Douangsavanh, Director General of the Department of Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Dr. Bounpheng Sibounheung, Vice President of Laos National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Thanongsingh Kanlagna and USAID’s Economic Growth, Education and Energy Officer, Mr. Cullen Hughes.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Mr. NAOKI Minamiguchi, Director of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT), paid a courtesy visit to Associate Professor Amorn Petsom, Ph.D., Director of the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, after the ASEAN Corner – a project under JAIF’s support- has been successfully established in 2021 at Thailand and the ASEAN Information Center, on the 6th floor of Chulalongkorn Central Library.

JAIF recognises the Office of Academic Resources as the potential partner for ASEAN academic resource distribution and knowledge sharing. More collaborations and activities are to come.

A newsletter from the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. KIYA Masahiko was published on 31 May 2023. In this edition, Ambassador introduces a series of events and consider, together with the readers, on how to make the most of the ASEAN-led mechanisms.

Some of events attended by Ambassador Kiya in May was a meeting between Chairperson Mr. HAGIUDA Koichi of Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the ASEAN Secretary-General H.E. Dr Kao Kim Hourn where Mr. Hagiuda explained the announcement by Prime Minister KISHIDA in March of an additional USD 100 million contribution to the Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to mainstream the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). They exchanged views to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations, including the promotion of economic ties and people-to-people exchanges.

Ambassador also attended the ASEAN-Japan Risk Management Plan (RMP) Symposium 2023 held on 24 May in Jakarta. This is a project co-organised by the Indonesian FDA (BPOM), the Faculty of Pharmacy University of Indonesia (FFUI) and the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) Japan to promote pharmaceutical regulatory as part of ASEAN Connectivity, through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Ambassador recognized the immense benefit of this initiative to both Japan and ASEAN, as it utilises Japanese knowledge to accelerate the approval and use of medicines within ASEAN.

Read the full newsletter here.

Congratulations to the 43 professional learners who completed the inaugural program at the ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing! The graduates are already driving positive change in the food, agriculture, and forestry sectors.

The ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation.

Learn more about the ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing here.

Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political-Security Community Michael Tene met with Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko at the ASEAN Secretariat earlier today. Both sides exchanged views on ASEAN-Japan cooperation and on the deliverables for the 50th Year of Dialogue Relations, particularly the implementation of projects under the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to support cooperation in the key areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

The Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Indonesia (UI) in collaboration with Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM RI) and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) Japan held the ASEAN–Japan Risk Management Plan (RMP) Symposium and Seminar 2023 on 24-26 May 2023 at the Ayana Midplaza Grand Ballroom, Jakarta. This activity is funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan–ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and supported by the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) with aims to enhance efforts to harmonise drug regulations among the ASEAN Member States.

Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. KIYA Masahiko expressed his appreciation to UI, BPOM RI, and PMDA Japan for organising this symposium and thanked all speakers who had participated. According to Ambassador Kiya, this event is a good opportunity for parties from ASEAN and Asia to take part in efforts to advance world health.

The entire project between ASEAN and Japan will focus on advancing global harmonisation activities on pharmaceutical regulations related to medicinal products. When country-specific regulations apply, additional tests and inspections may be required before the product can be approved. This lengthens the review period and increases costs, even causing delays in patient access to drugs. Therefore, the harmonisation of pharmaceutical regulations plays an important role in eliminating technical barriers in drug distribution without reducing the quality or safety of drugs. It is the responsibility of world regulators to ensure fast and appropriate access. With this joint effort, Deputy Chairperson of BPOM RI Dra apt Togi Junice Hutadjulu MHA is optimistic that symposium participants from ASEAN member countries will benefit from the latest information from experts and experiences shared in this symposium.

The articles about the event are also published on Indonesia’s news websites namely Suara Nusantara and Warta Apoteker.

Tropical anguillid eel resources are utilized for direct human consumption worldwide and its demand in Southeast Asia is increasing. For the sustainable use of eel resources, effective resource management measures are urgently required. However, appropriate resource management measures have not been developed yet because of limited information and data relevant to eel biology, catch history and statistics, and aquaculture.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported the project Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia carried out by the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (SEAFDEC/IFRDMD) which aims to collect the catch data and biological/ecological information and develop mathematical/statistical methods for estimating abundance of eel stocks, in order to formulate effective management measures on tropical anguillid eel resources in Southeast Asia.

These are the highlights of the project reported by IFRDMD from February to May 2023:

On 23 – 28 February 2023, the survey team from IFRDMD continued the first survey in 2023 to Poso of Central Sulawesi and Pelabuhan Ratu of West Java, Indonesia.

On 16 March 2023, IFRDMD organised a meeting at the Fisheries Division office of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Lao PDR. The meeting aimed to discuss the preparation of a book on freshwater fish profiles and fisheries activities of Lao PDR.

On 18 – 22 March 2023, IFRDMD conducted a survey activity in Pelabuhan Ratu and Poso. The team conducted interviews and discussions with the fishers, installed fishing gear, measured water quality, and had the opportunity to see and participated together with the fishers in catching glass eel at the river mouth of the Cimandiri River and the Poso River estuary during the night.

On 17 May 2023, IFRDMD visited a glass eel shelter in the Southeast Asia Region in Pelabuhan Ratu and learned the process of packaging glass eels that will be sent to buyers to be cultivated in ponds.

On 18 May 2023, IFRDMD conducted an interview with fishers of eel fisheries in the Cikaso River to find out the concern of fishers as actors of capture fisheries towards the sustainability of eel fisheries in Pelabuhan Ratu.

On 19 May 2023, IFRDMD conducted interviews with fishers of eel fishery in Cimandiri River. The interview was to find out the concern of fishers of capture fisheries towards the sustainability of eel fisheries in Pelabuhan Ratu, Indonesia. In addition, an eel collector was also interviewed to gather the problems of eel fisheries in his working area, as well as his views on the current management and utilisation of eel fisheries.

On 21 May 2023, IFRDMD team and the fishers continued the data collection of anguillid eel in the Poso River mouth, Central Sulawesi. The fishing gears deployed in some areas were checked and the water quality of the Poso waters was measured.

On 20 – 23 May 2023, the SEAFDEC/IFRDMD team and the fishers continued the data collection of anguillid eel in the Poso river, Central Sulawesi. The team also got the opportunity to meet with the eel collector and supplier.

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), in collaboration with the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), concluded the fourth cycle of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Project Proposal Writing Training for Cambodian officials today.

The Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre in Phnom Penh hosted the hybrid training on 16-25 May. It was attended by 30 Cambodian officials from 20 ministries and agencies based in Cambodia.

ASEC trained the officials to develop a regional project proposal and manage the ASEAN cooperation projects (ACPs) using a results-based management approach that includes budget formulation, fund disbursements, and reporting. Meanwhile, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team shared relevant information and experiences on project proposal formulation, implementation, and monitoring from an ASEAN partner’s perspective.

At the training, participants learned about the mechanisms to access available resources with the ACPs and the processes throughout the ASEAN project cycle.

As the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project Phase 2 nears its completion, its Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) convened its second meeting during the 15th ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (ACCMSME) Meeting held on 22-26 May 2023 in Bangkok Thailand.

On 23 May 2023, the Project Management Office (PMO) successfully presented the achievements and milestones of the AMEN Project Phase 2 thus far together with the challenges encountered, lessons learned, and recommendations put forward by the project stakeholders.

The project was lauded by the ASEAN Member States for the efficient delivery of its targeted outcomes and outputs, which ultimately are designed to contribute to MSME development and overall prosperity in the region.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council together with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Join the campaign and celebrate the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation! The grand prize winner will be invited to Tokyo or one of the ASEAN countries.Take this chance and show your creativity.

Deadline for submission is Saturday, June 10, 2023.

The video can be shot on your smartphones of your daily life filled with your perspectives and thoughts, so don’t hesitate to join the celebration of ASEAN-Japan Friendship!

For details, please refer to the entry guidelines on the campaign announcement page on the website for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

On 21 May 2023, ASEAN delivered the first batch of Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) relief items of USD 100,000 in value to support the people of Myanmar affected by the Tropical Cyclone Mocha.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) is preparing to deliver more relief items from the DELSA Regional Warehouse in Malaysia and Satellite Warehouse in Thailand. The ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) have also been deployed to conduct rapid needs assessment and to facilitate the delivery of relief items.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN has expressed his condolences to the affected communities and is closely monitoring the situation. Pursuant to the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Impact of Cyclone Mocha on Myanmar issued on 15 May 2023, the Secretary-General stands ready to serve as the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Coordinator (SG-AHAC) to provide strategic coordination and facilitate resource mobilization. Additional contributions from ASEAN Member States, external partners, and stakeholders including international humanitarian organisations are greatly appreciated to support ASEAN’s efforts in alleviating the suffering of the people affected by Cyclone Mocha.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) has been supporting DELSA since its establishment in 2012.

Singapore Air Force’s two C-130s and B737-800F aircraft arrived at Yangon International Airport yesterday afternoon, carrying a total of 34.69 tons of emergency supplies, temporary tents, tarpaulin, Jerry Can, and shelter repair kits worth USD 107,064. The aid was sent from ASEAN countries to assist those affected by Cyclone Mocha.

The Executive Director of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) presented the first batch of aid items to the Minister of Social Affairs of the Yangon Region Government.

The Regional Minister, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Heads and Missions from the nine ASEAN embassies based in Yangon and officials from AHA Centre attended the ceremony.
Following ASEAN’s One Response principle, the humanitarian aid provided by ASEAN countries will be facilitated through the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA). The materials, stored in warehouses in Subang of Malaysia and Chainat of Thailand, will be transported by military aircraft of Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia 19 times.

The Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Similar article also are published on Ruetir.com, and Warta Ekonomi

Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. KIYA Masahiko was interviewed by the ASEAN magazine on the occasion of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation and shared his insights on this significant partnership.

Ambassador said, since the establishment of ASEAN-Japan relations, Japan has worked closely with ASEAN for five decades to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in this region as a staunch supporter of ASEAN centrality and unity. Japan has also been working to aid ASEAN’s integration efforts through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) established in 2006, he added.

Further, Ambassador Kiya shared his view on Japan’s new plan for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and how it compares to ASEAN’s AOIP. He also promoted the commemorative events organized by the Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

Read full article on page 60-61.

The ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Policy Brief is a publication of the ASCC Department at the ASEAN Secretariat. It identifies trends and challenges that will impact ASEAN and ASCC sectors and propose policy-relevant solutions and recommendations to uplift the quality of lives of ASEAN people.

The ASCC Policy Brief No. 7 (2023), titled “Building Health System Resilience in ASEAN,“ discusses ASEAN’s progress in developing resilient health systems. It recommends more research and development, supply chain connectivity and resource pooling, and stronger primary health care to improve the ability of countries to deliver the health needs of their population at all times and withstand and respond to future emergencies.

The brief identified a number of bright spots. In the area of services delivery, ASEAN has set up the ASEAN Center for Public Health Emergency and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) and implemented the ASEAN Regional Capacity on Disaster Health Management Project to improve the capability of health systems to provide health services during public health emergencies, such as outbreaks, pandemics, and disaster events. The ASEAN Medical Device Directive was developed to ease access of countries to diagnostic and life-saving apparatus, machines, instruments, software, and other medical devices.

Read the highlights of the policy brief on The ASEAN Issue page 53 and download the policy brief from here.

This policy brief was made possible with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) was pleased to announce the successful completion of the ASEAN-ERAT Level 3 Pilot Course for Team Leaders, held from 8-15 May 2023 in Bogor, Indonesia.

In just seven days, 11 participants from ASEAN Member States and the AHA Centre embarked on a journey of knowledge and skill-building, emerging as competent and experienced humanitarian response managers who are ready to lead ASEAN emergency response operations on the ground.

The AHA Centre also thanked the National Agency for Disaster Management (BNPB) Indonesia for hosting the course, and the Government Japan for its support through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Heads of State/Government of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), gathered in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, for the 42nd ASEAN Summit on 10-11 May 2023 under the Chairmanship of the Republic of Indonesia. The Summit was chaired by H.E. Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, and convened in accordance with the ASEAN Charter.

The meeting welcomed the progress made on the implementation of ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2021-2025 and recognized the continuing role of cybersecurity awareness activities and capacity-building programs of the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (ASCCE) and the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC)^* in complementing existing ASEAN efforts in building regional cybersecurity posture.

The meeting also agreed to expand the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund to respond to other public health emergencies and emerging diseases and encourage the finalization of Establishment Agreement and preparatory phase of the ASEAN Center for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED)^*.

Read full statement here.

^*The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) and ASEAN Center for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In conjunction to the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, JICE held a programme on Japan-ASEAN History of Development Cooperation on 24-31 January 2023. Let’s learn about Japan-ASEAN relationship by watching the below video:

The voices of participants

A newsletter from the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. KIYA Masahiko was published on 28 April 2023. In this edition, Ambassador conveys the significance of the cooperation to the public (in both ASEAN and Japan) in an easy-to-understand manner.

Ambassador Kiya attended a series of events held in April, one of which is a meeting related to ASEAN-Japan cooperation in digital sector with NEC Asia Pacific. Through discussion with many ASEAN stakeholders, Ambassador found that the digital sector is one of the most important areas for cooperation with Japan in their expectations. Japan established ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC)^* with ASEAN in Bangkok, Thailand. More than 700 participants completed the trainings at AJCCBC. NEC is also cooperating in the operation of these trainings.

The possibilities of ASEAN-Japan cooperation are enormous. To name but a few, the use of digital technology to improve connectivity and to support start-ups within and beyond ASEAN. Ambassador said, taking the opportunity of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation this year, I would like to listen closely to the needs from ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, and other stakeholders. We hope to realise high-impact initiatives that will lead to the co-creation of value between ASEAN and Japan.

Read full newsletter here.

^*The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC).

Today at the ASEAN Secretariat, Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn met with 12 Attachment Officers (AOs) from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV). The AOs are currently undertaking a one-year attachment with the ASEAN Secretariat under the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Attachment Programme.

Supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), the Attachment Programme is aimed to help participants obtain first-hand experience on regional cooperation frameworks under the three ASEAN pillars, namely Political-Security Community, Economic Community, and Socio-Cultural Community.

Congratulations to the 30 ASEAN-ERAT Members who have completed the Level 2 Courses on Humanitarian Logistics and Civil-Military Coordination on 3-14 April 2023 in Singapore.

These members are now part of ASEAN’s growing pool of 114 certified specialists, who stand ready to support the National Disaster Management Organisations of ASEAN Member States in responding to disasters across the region, in the spirit of One ASEAN, One Response.

The ASEAN-ERAT Level 2 Courses on Humanitarian Logistics and Civil-Military Coordination are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Grow Asia has partnered with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore to launch a new certified training course on responsible investing. With US$205 billion in untapped investment opportunities across Southeast Asia, the ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing equips professionals with the skills to execute sustainable investments in the food, agricultural, and forestry sectors.

The course is delivered by Grow Asia and hosted NTU Singapore and the Singapore Agri-Food Innovation Lab (SAIL) – a collaboration between NTU and Enterprise Singapore to drive innovation and collaboration among companies in the agri-food sector and accelerate developments from the lab to market.

The programme consists of in-person workshops and e-learning modules specifically tailored for the ASEAN context. It’s an ideal entry point for professionals working in both private and public sectors, as well as start-ups, non-profits, and civil society organizations in the region.

Watch the program trailer here.

The initiative is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Grow Asia is honored to have the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) for the newly launched ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing. To learn more about the academy, please visit https://www.growasia.org/academy.

Read the press release here.

The year 2023 marks the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The long-term relationship has shown that a solid partnership is essential in building a more connected and prosperous region.

Through the years, ASEAN and Japan have collaborated on substantial and strategic programmes through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) flagship projects. See them here:

In English: https://youtu.be/Wq0jX73ibME

In Japanese: https://youtu.be/k1rKCVoImrQ

ASEAN looks forward to deepening friendship and cooperation with Japan!

The Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) project on Strengthening Capacity for Marine Debris Reduction in ASEAN Region through Formulation of National Action Plans for ASEAN Member States and Integrated Land-to-Sea Policy Approach (Phase 1) identified several policy gaps including the need to speed up formulation and implementation of national action plans, lack of inter-ministerial coordination/integrated policy for marine plastic issues, significant shortage and lack of harmonization of baseline data both of statistical waste management data and marine debris, weak infrastructure for solid waste management especially in local government, as well as the informal nature of circular economy approaches, and a lack of monitoring system among other things.

Under Phase 2, this project will address the capacity development needs in Cambodia and Myanmar with the prospect of a comprehensive package of National Action Plan (NAP) development and capacity development at local level implementation of NAP. In this project, a thoroughly assessment was made to the plastic waste value chain in the city, mapping the evidence, and improving the locations of plastic which is prone to be leaked to the environment. The activities provided with the participatory of people who using the data collection method and questionnaire involvement on the plastic waste assessment.

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 reported by Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) in March 2023:

50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation JENESYS U-17 Women’s Football Memorial Cup – Football teams from ASEAN and Timor-Leste assembled in Okinawa and Tokyo, Japan on 15-25 March 2023 for the ASEAN-Japan Sports Exchange (Football).

Japan-Singapore Exchange (Japanese Communication and Culture) – On 2-14 March, 36 vocational school students from Singapore visited Tokyo and Akita. They studied Japanese and visited Hamarikyu, Kabukiza, Tokyo Daijingu, and Asakusa to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture. At Hama-rikyu, they had a matcha experience, and the participants were very impressed with the matcha and Japanese sweets for the first time! They also enjoyed visiting samurai residences in Kakunodate and enjoying a homestay in Akita Prefecture. The participants were impressed by the hospitality of the Japanese people.

Japan-Philippines FOIP Exchange – On 8-14 March 2023, 22 students and government officials from the Philippines came to Japan and inspected Tokyo and Miyagi. In Tokyo, they attended a lecture on the theme of “Open and Free Indo-Pacific (FOIP)”, while in Miyagi, they attended a memorial service for the victims of the 3.11 earthquake and tsunami. The programme was meaningful and informative for the participants.

Japan-Viet Nam Young Administrative Officials and Diplomat Exchange – Diplomats and government officials from Viet Nam visited Japan and inspected Tokyo, Wakayama, and Tochigi on 1-7 March 2023. They learned about economic and trade cooperation between Japan and Viet Nam.

Japan-ASEAN Youth Leaders Exchange Program – On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, 138 youth leaders from ASEAN countries, Timor-Leste and Japan discussed case studies on five fields of common issues in Asia (A-Tourism development, B-Internet Utilization, C-Agriculture and Food Safety, D-Labor and Human Resource Development, and E-Cities Development) under the common theme of “What can be done for peace, stability, growth and prosperity in the region?” .

From 22-28 February 2023, presentations were received every day from prestigious lecturers and speakers in each field. These presentations were the basis for participants’ discussions on ways to contribute and cooperate in the Japan and ASEAN regions. From the discussions participants were able to make a declaration of action which has been submitted to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the day of reporting session.

JENESYS Japan-Philippines Exchange (Food Safety) – On 15-21 February 2023, twenty Filipino university students visited Tokyo and Fukushima under the theme of food safety. In Tokyo, they exchanged at culinary school that has a restaurant.

Lecture from the ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) – On Thursday, 23 February 2023, more than 100 youths from ten ASEAN countries, Timor-Leste, and Japan gathered for the “ASEAN-Japan Youth Leaders Exchange Program” under the “JENESYS 2022” program to discuss the common issues. AJC staff member Tanabe from Trade and Investment team gave a lecture on urban development.

Japan-Cambodia Para‐Sports Exchange – On 15 February, the participants of Japan-Cambodia Para-Sports Exchange visited Tokyo Tower.

Senior Officials of ASEAN and Japan attending the 38th ASEAN-Japan Forum in Tokyo reaffirmed their commitments to further advance the partnership and strengthen cooperation, as both sides mark the 50th Anniversary of Dialogue Relations this year.

The meeting highlighted the substantive progress made in ASEAN-Japan cooperation in all pillars over the past year, and discussed deliverables for the 50th anniversary, in particular, the preparation for the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit to be held in Tokyo in December 2023.

The meeting also welcomed the establishment of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) 3.0 with a contribution of US$100 million from Japan. JAIF 3.0 is a deliverable targeted for the partnership’s 50th anniversary to support various initiatives especially the activities relating to the implementation of the key areas of AOIP.

The press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan for the 38th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Forum is available here.

Japan has proposed a new Free and Open Indo-Pacific or FOIP strategy, with more cooperation and funding for the Indo-Pacific region, according to a highly placed and informed source.

The new FOIP improves on the earlier version introduced in 2016 and has broader scope for cooperation with the countries in the Indo-Pacific region as well as emerging countries in all parts of the world.

According to the new FOIP, Japan is committed to spending a total of US$100 million in Southeast Asia to improve so-called multi-layered connectivity, one of the four pillars of the strategy. The money will go into the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The new FOIP will also see knowledge, human and digital connectivity.

Japan has already applied for comprehensive strategic partnership of ASEAN, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Japan-ASEAN diplomatic relationships. The ASEAN leaders will make the decision in September, when they meet in Jakarta at the ASEAN Secretariat.

Over 270 young footballers from the U-17 women’s team from ASEAN Member States, Timor Leste, Uruma City Select Team and from the U-16 Japan National Team participated in the JENESYS-U17 Women Football Memorial Cup. The memorial cup was held on 14-25 March to commemorate the 50th year of ASEAN-Japan cooperation.

The cup brought together 12 teams with Japan emerging as the champion and Viet Nam and Thailand as the respective first and second runners-up.

Apart from competing in the match, the players also attended a lecture by the Japan Football Association on Japan Women’s Empowerment Professional Football League (WE League), the country’s first professional women’s football league that aims to promote an inclusive society through women’s football. Through the lecture, the young players were introduced to the WE League’s background, purpose, and its vision to be a societal role model in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond.

The entire programme provided a venue for the young players to further understand the pivotal role of youth and women in the sports sector and promoted mutual trust and cross-cultural understanding among the ASEAN and Japanese youth.

The commemorative event was organised as part of the JENESYS2022 project. Supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) since 2007, JENESYS has enhanced people-to-people interaction, intercultural awareness, and mutual understanding between ASEAN and Japan youth.

The year 2023 marks the 50th commemorative year of ASEAN-Japan relations. The video introduces ASEAN-Japan relations which have been built on the ”heart-to heart” relationship of mutual trust, with some examples of ASEAN-Japan cooperation.

For more information on ASEAN-Japan relations:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website

Official website on “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”

Japanese Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio is looking to put his stamp on Japan’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP) framework, using a visit to India this week to unveil a new plan that includes a massive new infrastructure and economic assistance program for countries in the “Global South.”

Kishida laid out the ambitious plan to promote the FOIP strategy on Monday, pledging $75 billion in investment to aid economies across the region — and beyond — in an attempt to bolster ties with countries in the Global South, a term used to refer to developing nations in areas such as Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Our FOIP is becoming more important than ever in the pursuit of the goal of leading the international community toward cooperation rather than division and confrontation,” the prime minister said, emphasizing the importance of “rule-making through dialogue.”

As part of the plan, Kishida said Japan would pledge $75 billion via private investment and yen loans and by ramping up aid through official governmental assistance and grants. The prime minister also said that Tokyo would make a new contribution of $100 million to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and will revamp the Japan-ASEAN Connectivity Initiative, which supports transport and logistics projects as well as person-to-person exchanges

In the Year of ASEAN Youth in 2022, various activities were launched to give the younger generation a more prominent voice in shaping policies and in building the ASEAN Community.

Explore the important role of the youth in ASEAN post-pandemic recovery efforts, growth, and development.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supports the ASEAN Volunteers: Community Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness to provide young ASEAN citizens with the opportunity to work with local partners and undertake grassroots initiatives in various ASEAN Member States (p.10). And through the project ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research & Development Platforms, the ASCC Department at the ASEAN Secretariat published a policy brief namely “Common Resilience Challenges in ASEAN and Potential Areas of Collaboration in Disaster Management”. This policy brief recommends a focus on institutions, financing, and technology to improve disaster resilience (p.52).

On March 20, from 2:35 p.m. (6:05 p.m., Japan time), for approximately 35 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting New Delhi, India, delivered a policy speech entitled “The Future of the Indo-Pacific—Japan’s New Plan for a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ — ‘Together with India, as an Indispensable Partner’ ” at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), announcing Japan’s new plan for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).” H.E. Dr. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India, attended this speech, representing the Indian government.

Out of the five points overview of the speech, Prime Minister Kishida set forth the new “four pillars” of cooperation for FOIP: principles for peace and rules for prosperity, addressing challenges in an Indo-Pacific way, multi-layered connectivity, and extending efforts for security and safe use of the “sea” to the “air”. He explained in concrete terms the expansion of cooperation for FOIP by incorporating realistic and practical cooperation in wide range of areas, such as climate change, food security, global health, and cybersecurity. He also announced a new contribution of 100 million US dollars to the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

Read full Policy speech by Prime Minister Kishida from the following links:
Japanese (PDF)

English (PDF)

More news also published on The New Indian Express, Fortune India, Financial Express, and The Times of India.

As part of Japan Football Association’s (JFA) commitment to support JENESYS, a programme promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the “JENESYS U-17 Women’s Football Memorial Cup” kicked-off on Friday, 17 March at Uruma City in Okinawa. The event will serve as an exchange platform for the youth in Japan, the countries of ASEAN, and Timor-Leste.

The 12 participating teams arrived in Okinawa on Wednesday, 15 March, as they conducted training sessions and participated in an orientation. Prior to their arrival in Japan, on Tuesday, 7 March, Coach MIYAMOTO Tomomi of the Nadeshiko Japan (Japan Women’s National Team) held an online lecture to introduce the development and history of women’s football in Japan.

On 16 March, Ambassador Kiya of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN received a courtesy call by the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) Executive Director, Mr. Prum Suonpraseth, and Project Manager, Ms. Chanthana Sengthong at the Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

ARMAC conveyed their appreciation for Japan’s support through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), particularly on the Enhance Awareness Programs on the Dangers of Mine/Explosive Remnants of War (ERW).

They further discussed potential cooperation for future projects in line with ARMAC’s mission to avoid risks in the region.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan released a series of documentary videos on “Japan’s ”. This is a documentary video that closely follows Official Development Assistance (ODA)’s activities in the field related to the sea. Actor Mitsuo Yoshihara is featured as a reporter, and his interviews with the people involved provide an insight into the activities of ODA. The video on “Safety of Maritime Traffic (Support for Capacity Improvement of Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), etc.)” shows how VTS provides necessary information and centralized navigation control to ships using radar and Very High Frequency (VHF) radio for the purpose of improving safety of maritime traffic and easing traffic congestion in congested sea areas, plays an important role. VTS plays an important role. In recent years, the needs for VTS centres have been increasing due to changes in the actual conditions of vessel traffic, especially in the ASEAN countries as their economies grow.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported the VTS projects for ASEAN namely Development of VTS Operator’s Capacity and Advanced Personnel Training Program for Vessel Traffic Service.

The trailer of the documentary was launched on 17 January 2023.

Watch also the video on “Initiatives for a Free and Open Ocean (Capacity Building Support for Charting)” which covers another JAIF supported project Joint Hydrographic Survey of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project began the onboarding of prospective coaches representing the ten ASEAN Member States (AMS) with the training and workshop conducted by AMEN Consultants Virgilio Espeleta and Gaston Ortigas on March 2023. A total of 32 coaches from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Viet Nam, Cambodia and Myanmar actively participated in the sessions, which covered (1) understanding their role as coaches, (2) brushing up on the Business Model Canvas (BMC) as a tool for coaching, and (3) finalizing the Business Improvement Plans (BIPs) of the mentees.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council together with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project has concluded its Mentors’ Onboarding for the AMEN Phase 2 with the conduct of the Batch 3 Session last February on 21 and 23. Spearheaded by the Project Executive Director Engr. Merly Cruz and AMEN Consultant Mr. Gaston Ortigas, this session was participated in by mentors representing Cambodia and Malaysia. The Onboarding Session of Coaches for the AMEN Phase 2 Program will follow on 08 March 2023.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The highlights of JENESYS2022 in February 2023 recorded from the activities of “JENESYS2022 Japan-ASEAN History of Development Cooperation”. The journey of participants is captured in the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE)’s Instagram:

On 26 January, participants had a tour and attended a lecture at JICA Global Plaza and exchange with National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS). They also had a virtual tour and lecture of Kao Corporation, a Japanese company that is famous for daily products such as soap. Lastly, participants attended a with the theme Youth Initiatives on Sustainable Blue Seas in ASEAN and Japan.

Starting on 27 – 29 January, participants were divided into groups with different focuses and activities:

Group B – On the first day, Group B had an exchange experience with Institute of Tropical Medicine of Nagasaki University. They visited Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims and Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park on the next day. Last day on 29 January, they experienced the cultural experience of origami, Japanese event namely Hinamatsuri and Tango-no-sekku, and also enjoyed Japanese traditional sushi and sweets.

Group C – On 27 January, Group C visited Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University to experience the exchange programme and on 29 January, they had a home visit and visited NPO Azimumachi Green Tourism Society for a lecture.

Group D – On 27 – 29 January in Hiroshima prefecture, Group D experienced the exchanges with JDS students in Hiroshima University, visited Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, had courtesy call for Higashi-Hiroshima city and cultural experience of ikebana, origami and kimono.

Group E – On 27 – 28 January, Group E had an exchanges experience with Chiba University and the next day, they had a tour of Sazaedo, Tsuruga Castle and a samurai residence in Aizu Wakamatsu.

Not only JICE, ASEAN-Japan Centre also covered JENESYS2022 activity and posted the group photo of participants from the reporting session and closing ceremony of Group 1 and Group 3 on their Instagram.

On 22 February, Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN BAC) hosted “ASEAN-Japan Co-Creation, Co-Innovation”, a hybrid event to commemorate the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation which was held in Jakarta, Indonesia. Ambassador KIYA Masahiko of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN attended the event.

Ambassador Kiya delivered a keynote speech at the opening session. In his speech, Ambassador Kiya stated that this year would provide a big opportunity for ASEAN and Japan, as the year falls upon the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. In addition, he emphasised that Japan would continue to stand by ASEAN in its efforts to develop and overcome crises, as it had done for the past 50 years. Ambassador Kiya also mentioned that he would do his utmost to put into effect the opinions and actions presented by participants in the event, for the development of not only ASEAN and Japan as well as the people of this generation, but also the world and the people of next generations.

The content discussed at the event will be taken into account in the “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Vision” being formulated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), JETRO and the business community, including the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).

Read the keynote speech and presentation slides from Ambassador Kiya on the following links:

• Ambassador Kiya’s remarks
• Ambassador Kiya’s presentation slides

Congratulations to the 31 newly graduates of ASEAN-ERAT!

Supported by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), 31 participants from the ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Secretariat, and AHA Centre joined the 14th ASEAN-ERAT Induction Course held in Da Nang, Viet Nam on 12-21 February 2023.

These ASEAN-ERAT members will be ready to support affected ASEAN Member States in the immediate of aftermath of a disaster.

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project Phase 2 welcomes a new batch of mentors from Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Viet Nam, Lao PDR, Singapore, Myanmar and Indonesia with the conduct of an Onboarding Training on 18 and 19 January 2023. The AMEN Mentors’ Training Consultant, Prof. Titos Ortigas, led the discussion of the AMEN modules as well as methods to hold effective sessions in preparation for the simultaneous mentoring of 30-35 mentees in each of the ASEAN Member States from February to June 2023.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

On 13 February, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN organised the Commemorative Symposium for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation co-hosted with Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI) in a hybrid format, as a kick-off event of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

In the opening session, Dr. Dino Patti Djalal, Founder and Chairman of FPCI and H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, the Secretary-General of ASEAN made their opening remarks, followed by screening of video messages from H.E. Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan, H.E. Ms. Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, MOFA of the Republic of Indonesia, and H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Prime Minister and MOFA of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Then, the discussants, shared their constructive views on how to make the most of ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) cooperation, as well as ASEAN-led mechanisms and initiatives in order to realise a sustainable and resilient society and regional peace and stability for the Epicentrum of Growth.

In closing, Ambassador Kiya concluded the symposium by stating his appreciation to those people and discussants who attended and made great contributions, as well as expressing his determination to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan relationship, while highlighting the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in the wake of this commemorative symposium.

About 180 people, including 20 students and a number of high-level participants, attended the event. The symposium was also livestreamed on YouTube.

Follow the links below to watch the video messages from Foreign Minister Hayashi and Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and full version of closing remarks from Ambassador Kiya:

Video message by Foreign Minister Hayashi

Video message by Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi

Video message by Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai

Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) congratulate the Mission of Japan to ASEAN and the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia for organizing the “Commemorative Symposium for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”. This major kick-off event in Jakarta brings together experts to deepen our understanding of the development of the ASEAN-Japan relationship for half a century and to discuss the way forward to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

Follow JAIF social media for more ASEAN-Japan commemorative activities in line with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) coming up this year!

The Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) is giving approximately USD 680,000 to the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) to help small and medium enterprises in the Philippines. The grant was announced by Go Negosyo founder Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III. Concepcion and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual thanked JAIF for supporting the development of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Through their support of AMEN, the Government of Japan has contributed greatly to creating prosperity for more in the ASEAN by uplifting the SMEs, which make up 96 percent of the total enterprises in the region,” Concepcion said.

AMEN is a region-wide program that originated in the Philippines as Kapatid Mentorship for Micro Enterprises (KMME) of DTI and Go Negosyo.

Launched in 2017 as the legacy project of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council-Philippines during the Philippines chairmanship of the ASEAN, AMEN completed its pilot implementation in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, and its 10-part module has been translated into seven languages, namely Khmer, Indonesian, Lao, Bahasa Malay, Burmese, Thai and Viet.

Joey Concepcion also shared his opinion about the importance of AMEN into two articles published on Philstar Global titled “The Challenges that We Face, the Future that We Want” and “A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats”.

Read more articles about AMEN on Philstar Global, Manila Buletin, Inquirer.Net, and The Manila Times.

The 3rd ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) was held in Boracay Island, Aklan, Philippines on 9-10 February 2023. His Excellency Ivan John E. Uy, Minister of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), chaired the Meeting with His Excellency Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of Health of Singapore as the Vice-Chair.

With regards to digital cooperation with Dialogue and Development Partners, the Meeting acknowledged that several important projects under ASEAN-Japan 2022 ICT Work Plan were supported under the ASEAN-Japan ICT Fund (AJICTF) and noted that the ASEAN – Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) has accomplished its target of reskilling over 700 cybersecurity professionals from 2018 to 2022 and welcomed the start of the upcoming next phase of AJCCBC spanning from 2023 to 2027.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) has been supporting the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) since 2018 to develop the capacity of personnel in cyber security of ten ASEAN nations.

Read the full statement here.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thanks through Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual. Concepcion and Pascual joined the President at this morning’s ceremonies held in Tokyo to thank Japan for funding the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

AMEN is based wholly on Go Negosyo and DTI’s Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME), which has been mentoring Filipino entrepreneurs since 2016. Joining them are Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Director-General of Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Yutaka Arima, who received the certificate and former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

AMEN is the ASEAN-wide implementation of KMME, which has produced more than 12,000 Filipino entrepreneur-graduates since its launch.

Country-level program launch of ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) together with mentees, mentors, and Go Negosyo Private Partners.

The sessions are conducted online. Module 1 on Entrepreneurial Mindsetting and Values Information was held on 2 February and continued with Module 2 on Marketing Mindset on the next day.

On 16 February, Modul 3 with the topic on Business Model Canvas was also held virtually.

On 30 January, the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Chairperson Handover Ceremony was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, KIYA Masahiko attended the ceremony.

Ambassador Kiya delivered his closing remarks at the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneur Network (AMEN) Regional Kick-Off event held during the handover ceremony, which marked the start of the 10-country roll-out of the AMEN project.

The AMEN Project is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In his remarks, Ambassador Kiya stated that AMEN was an excellent Public-Private Partnership to improve MSMEs’ access to market, money and mentorship in the region, which would contribute to narrowing gaps.

He also emphasised that Japan would fully support priorities of Indonesia as the ASEAN Chair in 2023 including the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) mainstreaming.

Read full Ambassador Kiya’s remarks here.

The event also posted on AMEN’s Facebook page along with a video remarks from ASEAN-BAC Chairman.

Today, the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) welcomed junior officers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV) who will take part in the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Attachment Programme.

This programme is one of the activities of the IAI which assists CLMV countries to meet ASEAN regional commitments and ensure that the benefits of ASEAN integration are equally shared.

The officers will be attached to the relevant divisions of the ASEAN Political-Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community, and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community for 12 months.

For more than 20 years, the programme has trained over 99 CLMV officers. In turn, these officers have promoted ASEAN integration and cooperation in their ministries and respective home countries. The programme is supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The officers were officially welcomed by Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Ekkaphab Phanthavong and Ambassador of the Japan Mission to ASEAN Kiya Masahiko.

Deputy Secretary-General Phanthavong thanked the Government of Japan and the JAIF Management Team (JMT) for their continued support towards the IAI Attachment Programme and for various other initiatives under the ambit of “Initiative for ASEAN Integration.”

Japan has shown consistent support for the IAI Attachment Programme for more than 20 years. This year is also the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, a major milestone in ASEAN-Japan relations.

On 2 February, H.E. Mr. KIYA Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, attended the Opening Ceremony of the Attachment Programme 2022-2023 for Junior Officials from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV) at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, celebrating 12 Attachment Officers upon their commencement of the Programme. Attendees at the ceremony included H.E. Mr. Ekkaphab Phanthavong, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community, as well as Permanent Representatives of CLMV countries.

The Attachment Programme dispatches young government officials from CLMV countries to the ASEAN Secretariat for one year, with a view to enhancing administrative capacities of the participants, as well as narrowing the gap between CLMV countries and other six ASEAN countries.  The programme has fostered a number of promising officials in CLMV countries for the past years.  The Government of Japan supports the programme through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

This special issue is inspired by ASEAN’s outstanding athletes, who continue to persevere, beat the odds, and reach for excellence amid the COVID-19 pandemic. ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Sports (AMMS) Chair and Thailand Minister of Youth and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn talks about ASEAN’s initiatives to adapt to future emergencies and to promote equality, accessibility and inclusion in sports. Cambodia’s Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports Hang Chuon Naron expounds on why the region’s traditional sports and games help build the ASEAN community.

Inclusion and gender equality are significant cornerstones of sports in ASEAN. Through the project ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports under the Japan-funded initiative #WeScore, ASEAN appointed 10 prominent athletes and sports officials as ASEAN Women in Sports Ambassadors in December 2021. This edition featured them on how they use their influence to promote gender equality and women empowerment.

The ASEAN magazine also thanked the Government of Japan, through its JENESYS programme, for supporting the production of this special edition.

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in January 2023:

Brunei creator in Japan – JENESYS programme invited 20 Brunei creators to Japan from 11 – 17 January 2023. They visited amps International ANIME School in Tokyo and learned about the history of Japanese animation. The lecturer Mr. OBATA Kimiharu is a well-known creator who is in the team of “Sailor Moon” and “Shin-chan”. The participants also interacted with Japanese students studying animation and manga policy at Nihon Kougakuin College. Also, they visited real-life anime locations such as the movie “Evangelion”, and the anime “Lagrange – The Flower of Rin-ne” in Chiba prefecture.

At the home visit, they learned about Japanese traditions and the warmth of the people. Participants are likely to remember what they presented at the Reporting Session and continue to share what they have learned with Brunei and the world.

JENESYS2022 Japan-Cambodia Martial Arts Exchange Program – On 11 – 17 January 2023, participants from Cambodia finally came to Japan to join the Japan-Cambodia Martial Arts Exchange Programme. Most of participants are experienced Karate, some of members are even National Karate members.

First day they visited the Nippon Budokan, where participants learned about “The History and Fascination of Japanese Martial Arts” lectured by Mr. YOSHII Hideo. Then, they visited Nippon Sports Science University to observe the practical training of martial arts by University Students. For sure, all of participants enjoyed all of program and deepened the understanding of Japanese Martial Arts.

From the second day they went to Yomitan Village in Okinawa and participated in many programmes such as a courtesy visit to Yomitan Village Office, home visit, and experience of Okinawa Karate and Kobudo (ancient Karate), and prepared for the presentation.

At the reporting session in Tokyo, participants made a presentation in front of the government officials from Royal Embassy of the Cambodia in Japan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Also at this session, two Karate players performed KATA of Karate and everyone gave them a big ovation. Please take a look at the video attached here.

Filipino High School Students in Japan – JENESYS programme had a high school exchange between the Philippines and Japan. In Tokyo, Filipino participants visited Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, Gotokuji Temple, and Japanese language classes. While in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, they interacted with Japanese high school students and visited Japanese families. The Filipino participants look beautiful in their ethnic costumes at the reporting session on the last day. It is hoped all participants would continue studying Japanese after returning.

Official Development Assistance (ODA) Mail Magazine No.460 issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan published an article titled “50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation: Promotion of ASEAN-Japan Cooperation in Line with the AOIP”.

The article begins with remarks from the Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko emphasising that the year 2023 marks the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. In 2019, ASEAN Leaders adopted the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) to guide ASEAN’s engagement in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. Japan was one of the first to express its full support for AOIP, and in 2020 Japan adopted a joint statement on AOIP cooperation with ASEAN leaders. Based on this joint statement, Japan is promoting cooperation with ASEAN that contributes to the essential principles of AOIP, such as the rule of law, in line with the AOIP’s four priority areas of cooperation (maritime cooperation, connectivity, UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and economic and other possible areas of cooperation).

The article continues with Mission of Japan to ASEAN officials introducing projects supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) in each of the four AOIP priority areas, among others JENESYS programme, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA), The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) are currently underway.

The Meeting between Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (SEAFDEC/IFRDMD) with the Chairman of the Marine and Fisheries of Extension and Development of Human Resources Agency/SEAFDEC Alternate Council Director, Dr. I Nyoman Radiarta, was held in Jakarta on 19 January 2023.

The Chief of IFRDMD, Dr. Rudi Alek Wahyudin and Deputy Chief of IFRDMD, Mr. Tomohito Shimizu, delivered the programs of SEAFDEC/IFRDMD budgeted by Japan Trust Fund VI Phase 2 and the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund (JAIF). Besides, the workplan in 2023 was also discussed by presenting four projects entitled Management Scheme of Inland Fisheries in the Southeast Asian Region, Enhancing Sustainable Utilization of Anguillid Eels in the Southeast Asia Region, Regional Collaborative Research and Capacity Building for Monitoring and Reduction of Marine Debris from Fisheries in Southeast Asia, and Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia. In addition, the core team of the SEAFDEC/IFRDMD was formulated as well.

Dr. Nyoman accompanied by the Head of Fisheries Research Center, Ms. Yayan Hikmayani, stated that Marine and Fisheries of Extension and Development of Human Resources Agency supports SEAFDEC/IFRDMD and also supports promoting achievements to gain valuable outputs, and encourages some experts to bolster staff capacity building.

Through the meeting, it is expected that there will be changes in the work team and better planning of activities so that in the future it can provide significant input for the development of marine and fisheries, especially related to inland fisheries.

Prime Minister of Japan KISHIDA Fumio contributes an article titled “Human security and universal health coverage: Japan’s vision for the G7 Hiroshima Summit” to The Lancet, the world’s most highly regarded medical journal.

He wrote that the COVID-19 pandemic has made an unprecedented impact on the international community and exposed the vulnerabilities of the present global health architecture. Better governance and finance measures are urgently needed to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) for global health threats and to create more resilient and sustainable health systems that lead to universal health coverage (UHC).

Further he wrote, national capacity is the foundation of PPR; enhancing regional and global institutions in a coherent way to support national efforts and collective actions is a key priority for effective PPR. In this regard, Japan will continue its full support to the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED).

H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, received a courtesy call by H.E. Ambassador KIYA Masahiko, the Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN at the ASEAN Secretariat today. Ambassador Kiya conveyed Japan’s commitment to further strengthen its relations with ASEAN in conjunction with the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations. Japan’s new support to ASEAN will include, among others, its additional contribution to the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) for humanitarian assistance to Myanmar, which was welcomed by the Secretary-General.

The ongoing project Support towards ASEAN’s Effort on COVID-19 Response to Myanmar through the Provision of Medical Supplies and Equipment for Phase 1 (Life-Saving) is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

PLANMalaysia has successfully organised the 1st Regional (Inception) Workshop for ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme Phase 2 in collaboration with the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) to support the bottom-up innovations for addressing land-based plastic marine debris and urban resilience in ASEAN cities.

The workshop is a strategic platform to discuss ASEAN countries’ policies related to inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and dynamic development.

The Day 1 of the workshop was held on 10 January at Seberang Perai. On Day 2, a technical visit to Kampung Permatang Nibong and Taman Bagan Lalang was arranged to see the implementation of the Project Case Study in Seberang Perai area – “Waste Segregation at Source: Solving Plastic Pollution in Penang”, an initiative that was led by the community and facilitated by the Seberang Perai City Council.

ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme Phase 2 – Supporting Bottom-up Innovations for Addressing Land-based Plastic Marine Debris and Urban Resilience in ASEAN Cities is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which is currently underway.

On 17 December 2022, Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko delivered a video message to Universitas Jambi for celebrating the “Year of ASEAN Youth 2022 and Welcoming Indonesia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023.”

In the message, Ambassador Kiya introduced projects of ASEAN-Japan cooperation, such as the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) and the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) Programme, which are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Ambassador Kiya encouraged students of Universitas Jambi to take advantage of these programmes in order to deepen their understanding of Japan.

Watch the full video here.

The ASEAN-Japan Centre has opened a special website dedicated to the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. This website introduces various anniversary events that will be held in 2023 as well as the people in ASEAN Member States and Japan who are connecting the people within. Also, it will be carrying out campaigns in which everyone from the region can participate together. It is hoped that this website will serve as an opportunity to start the next 50 years of ASEAN-Japan relations.

Visit the portal for the guidelines on how to apply for accreditation of the events and use of official logo/catchphrase.

Portal: https://aseanjapan50.jp

Guideline for accreditation: www.asean.or.jp/en/commemorative-events

The ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme (SDGs-FC) is a new initiative under the ASEAN Working Group on Environmentally Sustainable Cities (AWGESC) funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The programme expects to raise the capacity and profile of 27 (to be confirmed) ASEAN cities, (comprising ‘SDGs Frontrunner Candidate Cities’ and ‘Model Cities’) to develop and scale up multi-dimensional benefit model practices/policies towards clean and green sustainable development. It will also actively catalyse the agenda of SDGs localisation to contribute towards the national voluntary reporting and implementation of the SDGs in ASEAN Member States.

Visit the link to read full information of the project’s objective, implementation of activity and expected output.

Kedah Industrial Skills and Management Development Centre (KISMEC) was awarded a project by ASEAN Secretariat funded by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The title of this project is Common Standard Curriculum in Industrial Electronics for CLMV Countries where it aims to assist Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV) in strengthening their Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.

KISMEC’s role is instrumental in training the trainers from six Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in which 20 trainers from all of the CoEs will undergo one month training at KISMEC from 2 – 30 November 2022. After the training completion, the CoEs will be equipped with appropriate equipment with the help of KISMEC.

By equipping the participating CoEs from Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Viet Nam with befitting tools and providing trainings to their trainers, it can be the catalyst for their enhancement on industrial electronics and conducting training where the trained laboratory technicians will be in charge of the equipment.

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in December 2022:

JENESYS Japan-Thailand Exchange for High School Students – High school students who study Japanese in Thailand participated in the online program held on 7-13 December 2022. They enjoyed “Noh” (the oldest theatrical art that still exists in Japan) in Kyoto, school exchange with Seto High School in Okayama, Japanese art with Japanese ink, and home visit at Ehime.

JENESYS Japan-Myanmar Exchange (Japanese Language) – on 30 November – 6 December 2022, 46 Japanese language learners from Myanmar came to Japan. In Tokyo, the attended lecture and experience of Japanese culture and language, while in Nagano and Fukushima they had a home visit. Read more about the story from JICE Facebook page.

Join the #50lden_jenesys Challenge – 2023 is the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, carrying the slogan “Golden Friendship, Golden Opportunities”. To commemorate this, JICE will have a Hashtag Challenge on Instagram. What is JENESYS for you? What did you get from JENESYS? What do you want to do in JENESYS? Let’s participate! Download the frame and write about those themes and post it on Instagram with #50lden_jenesys.

Thai Students with Pop Culture – University and graduate students from Thailand came to Japan under the JENESYS2022 program from 30 November – 6 December 2022. They went to Tokiwa-so Manga Museum, Nakano Broadway, and Manga, Animation & Voice Actors School in Hokkaido.

JENESYS2022 Japan-Malaysia Exchange Program – Finally, those from Malaysia participated in the inbound program of JENESYS. Two batches, “young officials” and “women’s empowerment,” visited Japan on 23 – 29 November 2022. After lectures and exchanges in Tokyo, the team of young officials visited Tochigi Prefecture, and that of women’s empowerment visited Osaka and Nara Prefecture. Every day, there were new findings, and they recognized differences from Malaysia, and they made all the things into the presentation materials during workshops. At reporting Session, they presented to Government Officials from the Embassy of Malaysia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, which was a very fulfilling and meaningful reporting session.

On 22 December 2022, Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (SEAFDEC/IFRDMD) took a part on the Annual Progress Meeting on Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Project Phase 2 under the Development Stock Assesment Method and Strengthening Resources Management measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in the Southeast Asia.

In this fruitful meeting, IFRDMD wrapped up and shared the current result of the Eel Catch Sampling Survey and DNA activity. Since it is still an ongoing project, the complete analysis were expected to be done in 2023 and the objective of the project could be achieved to support sustainable eel fishery management.

A handmade buckwheat noodles (“teuchi soba” in Japanese) demonstration by a Japanese soba master was organized by the Mission of Japan to ASEAN in cooperation with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Permanent Mission of Thailand. Despite the end of the year, representatives of ASEAN member countries and many staff members of the Secretariat visited the event, enjoyed the powerful demonstration, and appreciated the actual tasting.

JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director Minamiguchi also attended the event and indulged in the exquisite soba!

Various projects supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) have been implemented to support key ASEAN strategies in the areas of food, agriculture, and forestry.

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project began the onboarding of the 1st batch of its mentors representing all ten ASEAN member-states (AMS) with the training conducted by AMEN Consultant Prof. Gaston Ortigas on 13 & 15 December 2022. Mentors from Brunei, the Philippines, Viet Nam, and Indonesia actively participated in the training, which covered the AMEN Mentoring Modules, mentoring tips and strategies as well as tools for doing effective online sessions.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 15-17 December 2022, Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (SEAFDEC/IFRDMD) held an agenda entitled Consolidation of the 2023 of SEAFDEC/IFRDMD Performance Plan in South Lampung, Indonesia. The meeting was attended by Chief of IFRDMD, Deputy Chief of IFRDMD, Acting Head of Research Institute for Inland Fisheries and Extension, and 14 staff of IFRDMD. The meeting was performed in a comfortable atmosphere to explore the potential of those in charge on how to achieve the objectives and develop the strategy for 2023.

At this meeting, presentations for 2023 were delivered by the IFRDMD secretariat as well as the project leaders. The activity under the Japan Trust Fund VI Phase 2 with title Management scheme of inland fisheries in the Southeast Asian region and Sustainable Utilization of Anguillid Eels in the Southeast Asia Region will be conducted. Besides, there will be two projects under the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) entitled Regional Collaborative Research and Capacity Building for Monitoring and Reduction of Marine Debris from Fisheries in Southeast Asia (for the freshwater fish) and Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia. The program from Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries with title Smart Fisheries Village was introduced as well.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Ekkaphab Phanthavong highlighted that climate change is contributing to the rise of risks and vulnerabilities for countries and communities in ASEAN.

He said this during the 4th ASCC Research and Development Forum on ‘Building Disaster Resilience to Climate-related Hazards in Southeast Asia’ held virtually recently.

Ekkaphab urged more attention to innovative adaptive approaches and cross-sector cooperation to mitigate the risks.

He emphasised the need for better mobilisation of local actors and cutting-edge technologies and suggested that innovative financing could be a powerful tool.

The forum was held with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). It brought together experts and officials from the ASEAN member states to discuss the trends and issues on climate-related hazards in Southeast Asia and the policy solutions that can emerge to build disaster resilience.

SEAFDEC Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (IFRDMD) carried out a survey in Pelabuhan Ratu, West Java, on 16-20 April 2022 under the project entitled Sustainable Utilization of Anguillid Eels in the Southeast Asia Region sponsored by JTF VI Phase 2, and Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel In Southeast Asia funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The team set fishing gears to trap the elver and yellow eel in the river and monitor the water quality of the Cimandiri and Cikaso Rivers. The aerial survey was recorded using a drone and camera at the river mouth of Cimandiri, Pelabuhan Ratu, West Java. The stock of Anguillid eels in the Cikaso River was observed using hydroacoustic equipment during the day and night to compare the supply of Anguillid eels at both times.

 The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre) had the pleasure of welcoming H.E. Ambassador KIYA Masahiko from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN during his courtesy visit on 14 December 2022. The Government of Japan is one of AHA Centre’s biggest partners, supporting various initiatives through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These include the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA), the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme, enhancing the capacity building of ASEAN-ERAT, and the enhancement of AHA Centre’s ICT operational capacity.

JAIF is now on Facebook and Instagram! Please follow the JAIF social media accounts to keep updated with the latest news on JAIF.

Grow Asia – a nonprofit established by the World Economic Forum and the ASEAN Secretariat to build partnerships for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems – has launched a USD 6.6 million multi-donor impact fund to drive more responsible investments in Asia’s food and forestry sector. The fund, called GrowRight, will support a blend of partner-matching and training programs for investors and policymakers to support the adoption of sustainable finance mechanisms.

“We welcome the launch of Grow Asia’s multi-donor impact fund to drive responsible investment in Southeast Asia’s agriculture system,” says H.E. Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for the ASEAN Economic Community. “This work, thanks to support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund and matching funding from Cargill, will help scale the operationalization and impact of the ASEAN Guidelines on Promoting Responsible Investment in Food, Agriculture, and Forestry – a journey we embarked on with Grow Asia and its partners in 2018. We commend Grow Asia’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive agriculture in the region, and look forward to seeing the impact and learnings that emerge.”

Read the press release of the event here.

The 4th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Research and Development Forum on “Building Disaster Resilience to Climate-related Hazards in Southeast Asia” was held with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) through the project ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research & Development Platforms. This webinar brought together experts and officials from the ASEAN Member States to discuss the trends and issues on climate-related hazards in Southeast Asia and the policy solutions that can emerge to build disaster resilience.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), Ekkaphab Phanthavong, highlighted that climate change is contributing to the rise of risks and vulnerabilities for countries and communities in ASEAN. He urged more attention to innovative adaptive approaches and cross-sector cooperation to mitigate these risks. He emphasized the need for better mobilisation of local actors and cutting-edge technologies and suggested that innovative financing could be a powerful tool.

The webinar presented the highlighted topics on the global progress that has been made in the localization of humanitarian assistance and the targeted localization approaches that can be deployed in Southeast Asia to address the systemic risks of current and future disasters of climate change including future public health emergencies. The webinar also had a discussion on the changing disaster risk landscape in ASEAN due to climate change, and the opportunities in emerging technologies for disaster risk management.

The news is also published on Vietnam Plus.

On 6 December 2022, H.E. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Minister attached to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the next Secretary-General of ASEAN.

In the summary overview of the meeting, Minister Hayashi expressed his respect for Cambodia’s efforts in successfully hosting the ASEAN-related Summits in November in person for the first time in three years and expressed his expectation for the leadership of Minister Kao Kim Hourn, who would assume the office of the Secretary-General of ASEAN in 2023.

Regarding the cooperation between ASEAN and Japan, Minister Hayashi stated that Japan supports the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework and would continue to contribute to ASEAN countries’ economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stated that Japan would continue to support the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) as the flagship project of ASEAN-Japan cooperation in order to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response to future public health crises. The ACPHEED is funded through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

In relation to the upcoming 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, Minister Hayashi reiterated Japan’s intention to develop a new vision for the friendship and cooperative relationship between ASEAN and Japan in preparation for the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in December next year, and Minister Kao Kim Hourn stated in response that he places importance on the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation next year. The two Ministers concurred that they would work closely with each other in order to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations on the occasion of the 50th Year.

On 1 December 2022, H.E. KIYA Masahiko assumed his duty as the Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

This is the first posting of Ambassador Kiya to a Southeast Asian country, but he has been working with ASEAN Member States in various fields such as security, peacebuilding, economy, energy, development cooperation, and global health in Japan as well as in other countries in the world. Making most of such backgrounds, Ambassador Kiya would make his utmost efforts to enhance ASEAN-Japan relations, given the growing importance of ASEAN in the international community.

Ambassador mentioned that Japan has been supporting countermeasures against the COVID-19 pandemic as well as recovery from the pandemic by providing vaccines, medical equipment, financial support loans, and support for the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED). In the field of socio-culture, Japan has been promoting people-to-people exchange and sports-cultural exchange under the JENESYS programmes. Both projects were implemented through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In particular, next year is the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The official catchphrase of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation is “Golden Friendship, Golden Opportunity.” Making the most of this Golden Jubilee of ASEAN-Japan relations, Ambassador Kiya says, “I would like to do my utmost to elevate ASEAN-Japan relationship to a new stage, making our friendship, opportunities, and our future even greater and brighter. I look forward to meeting all those who lean the further development of ASEAN-Japan cooperation in various fields.”

Read the full message from the Ambassador here.

Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN KIYA Masahiko presented his Letter of Credence to Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dato Lim Jock Hoi, on 1 December 2022 at the ASEAN Secretariat.

On this occasion, Ambassador Kiya reaffirmed that Japan has been a staunch supporter of ASEAN Centrality and unity as well as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), and expressed his will to further enhance Japan’s relations with ASEAN towards the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in 2023. In response, Dato Lim congratulated Ambassador Kiya on his assumption of office and expressed his appreciation to Japan’s longstanding support to ASEAN.

The above event is also published by the Indonesian news agency Antara News.

The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) using Space Satellite System, standardised by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), has been introduced in several countries of the world as a redundancy of conventional ground-based navigation system. In order to implement GNSS in the ASEAN region fluently, the human resources development who would be in charge of optimized implementation planning with understanding significance of GNSS would be an important challenge.

The GNSS Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA) project supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) aimed at staff training of engineers and administrative officials in ASEAN nations who would be in charge of development of implementation plan for the realisation of safe and economic GNSS implementation that would be operated with joint cooperative works in ASEAN region. This project also aims for relevant ASEAN civil aviation personnel to obtain knowledge and skills for introduction plan of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) starting from year 2020. After this training, safe, efficient, reliable and cost-effective air navigation service provided by GNSS is expected to be ready in ASEAN region as a whole.

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in November 2022:

First JENESYS2022 Inbound Program: Japan-Lao PDR Exchange “Environment” – Face-to-face program has finally resumed at JENESYS! Twenty participants from Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Lao PDR visited Tokyo and Nagano prefecture. Through exchanging with Nagano University students and visiting Hakuba village, they learned about Japanese environmental protection activities and renewable energy.

JENESYS2022 Inbound Program: Japan-Lao PDR Exchange “Japanese Language and Culture” – was held on 26 October – 1 November 2022. Nineteen participants from secondary school and university in Lao PDR visited Tokyo, Osaka, and Wakayama prefecture. They exchanged with Japanese students who study Lao at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. They also experienced Japanese tea and “Makie” (gold-relief lacquerware).

Read more about the program from JICE Facebook.

JENESYS2022 Inbound Program for Indonesia and Timor Leste – was held on 9 – 15 November 2022. This program was divided into three groups with different themes. Group A learned about diplomacy and local administration in Yamagata, Group B learned about maritime safety in Shizuoka, while Group C visited fishing industry in Toyama.

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), under the Consumer Protection Group (CPG), successfully hosted the 58th ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality (ACCSQ) Meeting and its Related Meetings in Boracay, Malay, Aklan on 6-9 December 2022.

The Meeting discussed matters arising from the 57th ACCSQ Meeting, updates on the recent developments in the ASEAN Economic Integration, progress of 2022 Annual Priority (AP) Deliverables, latest updates in the signing of ASEAN legal instruments in 2022, AP Deliverables for 2023 proposed by Indonesia, the Standards and Conformance Strategic Plan 2016-2025 and Third Sector Masterplan of ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, progress reports of ACCSQ Working Groups and Product Working Groups as well as Standards, Technical Regulations and Conformity Assessment Procedures (STRACAP) in ASEAN Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Australia and New Zealand, China, Korea, Japan, and Canada. The ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) upgrade negotiations and cooperation with Dialogue Partners were also tackled.

Several Dialogue Meetings were held back-to-back with the 58th ACCSQ, one of which is the 8th ASEAN Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Sub-Committee on STRACAP Meeting, which discussed the progress of ASEAN activities and projects in cooperation with Japan particularly the ASEAN-Japan Partnership Program for Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Safety Conformity Assessment of Multi-Media Equipment (MME) and the Development of ASEAN Common Qualification Scheme for Quality Control Experts funded through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Project assembled the national consultants who will work on its ASEAN region-wide program implementation earlier today to align on tasks and activities in time for project launch slated in January 2023.

All ten ASEAN Member-States (AMS) were represented by their National Consultants together with Public-Private Partnership (PPP) focal persons and AMEN Technical Working Group members. The session was led by AMEN Mentorship Institute (AMI) Consultant Virgilio Espeleta and AMEN Regional Consultant Renea Tan.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is implemented by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council with the support of the Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Filipino franchising expert Armando “Butz” Bartolome was invited earlier in November 2022 by the Darussalam Enterprise (DARe) and Brunei Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (BMEN) to mentor entrepreneurs of Brunei.

Bartolome, who is part of the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN), conducted a three-day mentorship consultation with local Bruneian entrepreneurs, local mentors and members of DARe. He also held for BMEN mentors an exclusive session on how to further hone their mentorship skills.

To gain a full picture of entrepreneurship in Brunei, he visited businesses with potential for growth in franchising, namely Top Folk, Substation, Arquilato Kusina, Kontana, A-Ayam Chicken and Satay.

BMEN is Brunei’s Public sector partner in the implementation of the AMEN, a program supported by the Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to promote mentorship as a means to grow MSMEs and achieve prosperity in the region.

The 17th East Asia Summit (EAS) was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on 13 November 2022. The Meeting was chaired by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and attended by the Heads of State/Government and High Representatives of ASEAN Member States, Australia, the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, and the United States of America.

The Summit acknowledged ASEAN’s key initiatives in strengthening public health emergency preparedness and response initiatives, such as, the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED). The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) contributed USD 1 million to the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the implementation of projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

In the area of disaster management, the Summit reaffirmed the continued support from EAS member country for the implementation of the priority programmes of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme (2021-2025) as well as strengthening the capacity of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre) as the primary ASEAN regional coordinating agency on disaster management and emergency response. The Government of Japan has been one of the key support mechanisms for a range of ASEAN disaster management functions through JAIF projects, among others, Development of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 and several flagship projects implemented by the AHA Centre.

Read the full Statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/FINAL-Chairmans-Statement-of-the-17th-East-Asia-Summit_EAS.pdf

Two new publications, made through the Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics Project in partnership with the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), Department of Environment and Natural Resources, University of the Philippines Diliman – Institute of Biology, and Mount Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems, were launched during the Seventh ASEAN Heritage Parks Conference.

The publications, “Field Guide to the Vascular Plants of the Mudspring Area, Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, Philippines” and “Manual on DNA Barcoding of Vascular Plants in Southeast Asia”, will help in enhancing of the capacity of the AMS in identifying vascular plant species in the region and using DNA-based approaches in species identification and discovery.

Get free access to these publications by scanning the QR codes on the above pictures.

The Indonesian Representative to the Advisory Board of the ASEAN-IPR, Ambassador Artauli RMP Tobing, paid a visit to the Mission of Japan to ASEAN on Monday, 7 November 2022. With warm welcome by Ambassador Chiba Akira, Ambassador Artauli handed a book launched by the ASEAN-IPR, titled “Aceh Case: Peacebuilding and Post Tsunami Recovery” to Ambassador Chiba.

The Mission of Japan to ASEAN, through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), supports the research and study of peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery through the post-tsunami recovery case in Aceh. The purpose of the research is to find the roles of post-humanitarian actors with their further assistance in peacebuilding, and the publication is one of the pillars in celebrating the successful outcome of the research.

The book launch event was conducted on 27 June 2022 and it is available for download on ASEAN-IPR website.

From 9 November, the series of “ASEAN Now and the Future III – Plastics in the Ocean”, has been broadcasted on NHK World through support by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), starting from the Episode One “Series Introduction and Viet Nam”.

“ASEAN Now and the Future III – Plastic Ocean“ consists of TV programmes made by broadcasting stations in four ASEAN countries, i.e. Viet Nam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Supported by Japanese experts, each station will report on rapidly worsening problems in respective countries due to the increase of marine plastic wastes and some distinctive measures to tackle them in three-run programs.

Check the details from the link below and enjoy them by video streaming from outside of Japan:

Episode One: Series Introduction and Viet Nam https://biz.jibtv.com/programs/asean_now_and_the_future_2022/20221109.html

Episode Two: Indonesia and the Philippines https://biz.jibtv.com/programs/asean_now_and_the_future_2022/20221109_2.html

Episode Three: Thailand and Conclusions https://biz.jibtv.com/programs/asean_now_and_the_future_2022/20221111.html

The 25th ASEAN-Japan Summit Meeting was held in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, on the afternoon of 12 November 2022. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced that Japan has provided a total of 29.5 billion yen in financial assistance to ASEAN member countries for the reconstruction of Covid-19 and expressed his intention to continue this assistance in the future. In response, President Marcos said, “The Covid-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the ASEAN Comprehensive Reconstruction Framework (ACRF) depend on Japan’s significant support,” he said, expressing his appreciation for Japan’s contribution.

In the area of disaster management, President Marcos spoke highly of the long-standing cooperation between Japan and ASEAN, particularly Japan’s assistance to the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (AHA Centre) through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

At the ASEAN-Japan Summit, it was decided at the suggestion of Prime Minister Kishida to hold a special ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation Summit in Tokyo next year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between ASEAN and Japan.

Similar article also covered in Manila Bulletin

Entrepreneurship is a key driver of the ASEAN economy, and their digitalisation will be vital in achieving inclusive growth in the region. This appeared to be the view of the ASEAN leaders as it wrapped up two days of top-level meetings at the ASEAN 2022 Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, according to Go Negosyo founder and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (BAC) Chair for the Philippines, Joey Concepcion.

Concepcion shared that digitalisation and cooperation are central to the regional mentorship program called the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) program. AMEN aims to share best practices and know-how among MSMEs in the ASEAN. It is the legacy project of the Philippines’s 2017 Chairmanship of the ASEAN, which also coincided with the 50th anniversary of the union.

“Our goal is to scale up our MSMEs through access to what we call the three Ms of MSME development – that is, mentorship, money and market – using both traditional and digital platforms,” he said.

Phase 1 of AMEN was piloted in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines in 2019, with 127 entrepreneurs and 48 mentors participating. Phase 2 is now on its build up stage and is set to be implemented across the ASEAN. Both phases of the project were funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

An article written by Concepcion titled “Creating an inclusive ASEAN economy” shares his experience and view about the importance of mentorship programme for achieving inclusive growth and creating more jobs in ASEAN, and bringing prosperity to all.

With entrepreneurship as the “true engine” of growth, an economic adviser on Saturday, 12 November hailed the leaders of the ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for putting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and their digitalisation at the core of the region’s economic recovery and progress.

Joey Concepcion, Go Negosyo founder and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (BAC) Chair for the Philippines, said he was elated that the ASEAN leaders recognised entrepreneurship as the key driver of the ASEAN economy, and that helping entrepreneurs would be vital in achieving inclusive growth in the region during the two-day top-level meetings at the ASEAN 2022 Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Concepcion said, digitalisation and cooperation are also central to the regional mentorship program called the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) program, a legacy project of the Philippines’s 2017 Chairmanship of the ASEAN, Concepcion said. AMEN aims to share best practices and know-how among MSMEs in the region. With AMEN, MSMEs can learn from other small entrepreneurs and mentors across the region. Mentors can also exchange knowledge and learn from each other on a regional scope.

ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) projects are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 12 November, the 25th ASEAN-Japan Summit, chaired by Mr. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Mr. Kishida Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, attended the meeting.

Prime Minister Kishida on his opening remarks, stated that he would like to hold a Commemorative Summit in Tokyo around December 2023 as the next year would mark the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. In response, many countries expressed their support in their remarks. As the Chair, Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed appreciation to the ASEAN Leaders for accepting Japan’s proposal and confirmed that the Commemorative Summit would be held following a regular annual ASEAN-Japan Summit in 2023.

In the area of ASEAN-Japan Cooperation, particularly regarding the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Kishida introduced Japan’s financial support loans of approximately 295 billion JPY in total to ASEAN countries as part of Japan’s support to the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF). He also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to assist the sustainable growth of ASEAN countries. In addition, he also expressed his intention to continue supporting the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) including through the dispatch of Japanese health experts. The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported the projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

In concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Kishida said that he would like to make the Golden Jubilee of ASEAN-Japan relations a golden opportunity to demonstrate golden friendship between ASEAN and Japan as suggested by its official catchphrase.

The Chairman’s Statement is available here where the following projects supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) are acknowledged:

• ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC);
• ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP);
• ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN);
• ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership;
• Attachment Programme for Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV);
• JENESYS Programme;
• ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme; and
• Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA)

The 25th ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Summit was held on 12 November 2022 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The Summit was chaired by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and attended by Heads of State/Government and High Representatives of ASEAN Member States, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. The Secretary-General of ASEAN, and the Secretary-General of the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (TCS) and the director of ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) were also in attendance.

The Summit reaffirmed the crucial role of APT cooperation in combating the COVID-19 pandemic in the region and mitigating its socio-economic impacts and acknowledged the support and contribution of the Plus Three countries to ASEAN Member States, and ASEAN’s initiatives in addressing COVID-19 which include, among others, the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund, and the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF) and its Implementation Plan.

In particular, the Summit appreciated Japan’s contribution to the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED). Apart from the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund, the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) also supported the projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

Read the full statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/FINAL-CS-of-the-25th-APT-Summit-as-of-15-Nov-22.pdf

Congratulations to the Viet Nam team for winning the championship of the Cyber SEA Game 2022 in Bangkok, Thailand. After a seven-hour competition, Mr. Le The Thang, Mr. Nguyen Quang Ba, Mr. Ky Hung Chien, and Mr. Nguyen Manh Dung who represented their nation as a team brought home the championship and the prize to compete in one of the most exciting cyber contests, SECCON 2022, in Tokyo, Japan in February next year.

Cyber SEA Game is an annual Capture the Flag cyber competition conducted by the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) and Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) under the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand (MDES) to be a platform for cyber enthusiasts from the ten ASEAN Member States under the age of 30 to compete among each other.

This year’s competition was held on 10 November 2022 and was very special because this was the first time after two years, we were able to conduct the event face-to-face, which brought back physical engagement and discussion among the team members and interaction between different teams.

This successful event would not have been possible without the generous support from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan (MIC). AJCCBC as the organiser of this event extend their gratitude to the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), the Embassy of Japan in Thailand, and Mission of Japan to ASEAN for their valuable contributions. It is hoped that participants enjoyed the contest and gained valuable experience and knowledge that will be applicable to their future venture. It also hoped that this event helps shed light on the importance of cybersecurity and the young generation who will be the future of cybersecurity.

ASEAN Business Advisory Council (BAC) Chair for the Philippines and Go Negosyo founder, Joey Concepcion, shared news that three homegrown companies bagged top awards at the ASEAN Business Awards. Home Healthlink Innovations and FELTA Multimedia Inc. won the top prizes in the SME Priority Sector – Healthcare and the SME Excellence in Innovation categories, respectively, while Esquire Financing bagged a special award for its role in MSME financing.

“There are 71 million MSMEs in the ASEAN region, accounting for almost all of the total establishments. In the Philippines, these small entrepreneurs also account for a large majority of the total enterprises. Considering their important role in job generation and in our collective economic recovery, we must continue to support them,” he said.

Concepcion shared that the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) the Legacy Project of his Chairmanship of the ASEAN BAC, continues to be actively expanded and sustained across ASEAN. AMEN is a public-private partnership platform that aims to support regional MSMEs through mentorship and training based on modules used by the Go Negosyo program Kapatid Mentor Microenterprises (KMME), which it conducts alongside the Department of Trade and Industry. Phase 1 of AMEN has been piloted in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Phase 2 is set to be implement in the whole region with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which funded AMEN for a second time.

The ASEAN Business Awards motivates key sectors to promote the ASEAN in the world’s economy and encourage regional cohesiveness and global competitiveness.

More article here: https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/06/filipino-smes-bag-top-honors-at-asean-business-awards/

“ASEAN Now and the Future III” is a series based on the unique perspectives of each country’s broadcasters. This year, it treats the problem of marine plastic waste. More than half of the plastic is discharged from Asian countries. The ASEAN member countries of Indonesia, the Philippines, Viet Nam, and Thailand occupy top positions in the world ranking. In the series, we will see the actual situation of each country.

Episode 1 introduces Vietnam Television (VTV)’s production. Viet Nam has enjoyed spectacular economic growth in recent years, but its 3,000 km north-south coastline is now beset by serious plastic waste pollution. The program introduces several topics, such as a project to exchange waste for money at a Green Hub regional development center, and the activities of a female student represented Viet Nam at the ASEAN-Japan Centre’s “Future Leaders’ Declaration on ASEAN-JAPAN Cooperation for International Marine Plastic Waste”.

The series are output of the Capacity Building of ASEAN TV Broadcasters through Documentary Program Production on Marine Plastic Waste in ASEAN project, supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Japan’s relations with ASEAN began in 1973. That means next year, in 2023, Japan and ASEAN will celebrate 50 years of friendship and cooperation. To commemorate this important milestone, Mission of Japan to ASEAN and Permanent Missions of the ASEAN Member States in Jakarta have selected a logo and a catchphrase from a total of over one thousand entries.

Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. Chiba Akira explains the meaning behind the official logo and catchphrase.

Japan and ASEAN share the view to promote a rule-based Indo-Pacific region that is free and open, embraces key principles such as ASEAN’s unity and centrality, inclusiveness, transparency, respect for international law, and complements ASEAN community building process. At the 34th ASEAN Summit in June 2019, ASEAN Leaders adopted the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) which provides a guide for ASEAN’s engagement in the Asia-Pacific and the Indian Ocean regions. Japan expressed its full support to the AOIP at the ASEAN-Japan Summit in the same year and has been a steadfast supporter of the AOIP as the AOIP and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) concept share relevant fundamental principles in promoting peace and cooperation.

The progress report on Japan’s Cooperation for the AOIP is submitted by Japan to the ASEAN-Japan Summit to update ASEAN Leaders on the progress of Japan’s 73 existing cooperation projects and to inform 16 additional projects on the AOIP. A variety of projects, which cover all the priority areas of AOIP cooperation, made steady progress despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

The following projects are partially/fully funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund to support the AOIP:

• Advanced Personnel Training Program for Vessel Traffic Service
• Joint Hydrographic Survey of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore
• Strengthening Capacity for Marine Debris Reduction in ASEAN Region through Formulation of National Action Plans for ASEAN Member States and Integrated Land-to-Sea Policy Approach (Phase2)
• Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA)
• “Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS 2022”
• Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN
• ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports
• IAI Attachment Programme at the ASEAN Secretariat for Junior Diplomats of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (17th Batch) and 6th Batch: Attachment of Officers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam for AEC and ASCC Involvement at the ASEAN Secretariat (2022-2023)
• Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”
• ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme Phase 2 – Supporting Bottom-up Innovations for Addressing Land-based Plastic Marine Debris and Urban Resilience in ASEAN Cities
• AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020
• Strengthening ASEAN’s Collective Response Capacity through the Enhancement of the Capacity Building of the Regional ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) (2020 – 2022)
• The Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II and III projects
• Development of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025
• ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) – Phase 2
• Promotion of Higher Efficient Air Conditioners in ASEAN through Harmonisation of Standards and Strengthening of Market Verification and Enforcement Capabilities (Phase I)
• ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management
• ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2)
• The Review of ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2017/1
• KPI Monitoring Support of the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for SME Development (2016-2025): Phase 2 toward 2020
• Development and Implementation of Facility Level Monitoring and Reporting (M&R) Framework for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions in ASEAN Member States (AMS): Phase2
• ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Phase 2

Detailed list of Japan’s Cooperation Projects on the AOIP is available here.

The inadequacy in trained human resources and capacities on taxonomy has been stressed as one of the obstacles in the implementation of commitments to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), especially in the ASEAN region. Lack of scientific information on biodiversity in this region is a crucial issue in the assessment and prediction of biodiversity changes, caused mainly by the lack of taxonomic capacity in data collection and analysis. To meet this challenge, the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) and Japan have partnered to strengthen taxonomic capacities in the ASEAN region, through projects funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) namely Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics which is currently underway.

JAIF project aims to contribute largely in developing capacities for the ASEAN Member States in the application of taxonomic knowledge for, among others, reducing the rate of biodiversity loss. The project would also enhance the role and capacity of the ACB to function as an effective regional centre of excellence in promoting biodiversity conservation and management, harmonizing quarantine and inspection sampling procedures, as well as strengthening best practices for implementing sanitary and phytosanitary measures in trading and commerce of ASEAN products to be more competitive globally as envisioned in the Roadmap (ASEAN Economic Community A.7.38.iv).

The project also aims to contribute to the establishment and enhancement of the ASEAN standards and conformance in the trading and commerce for biodiversity-related commodities and products which critically need taxonomic knowledge and skills in the region.

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in October 2022:

Online Student Conference for JENESYS ASEAN Alumni (Day 1): A total of 30 JENESYS alumni from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, as well as Japanese students, participated the three-day online program, from 9 – 11 October 2022. At the first day of program, the participants listened to lectures by professor and experts on five themes such as “Food sustainability” by Mr. Charles E. McJinton, CEO of Second Harvest Japan, “Cultural Heritage” by Mr. Yuichi Uchiyama, Manager of Toppan Inc., “Fair trade” by Mr. Yasuhiro Fukuchi, CEO of Yatsumoto Tsusho Co., LTD., “Education” by Prof. Shoko Yamada, Nagoya University, and “Disaster Prevention” by Mr. Akio Sasahara, Executive Director, Asian Disaster Reduction Center. The lectures followed by a workshop where participants discussed on how to develop more workable action plan. This action plan will be presented at the reporting session on the last day.

Online Student Conference for JENESYS ASEAN Alumni (Day 2): On the second day of the workshop, students from ASEAN countries, Timor-Leste, and Japan discussed seriously, and the discussion continued even after the expected time. Sometimes there were hot discussions, however, they found great solution on this argument. All participants indeed showed their hard work.

Online Student Conference for JENESYS ASEAN Alumni (Day 3): At the final day of the three-day online program, each group member of “Food Sustainability”, “Cultural Heritage”, “Fair Trade”, “Education”, and “Disaster Prevention” worked out an action plan through the workshops. Each group made presentation materials in terms of 1) Definition of the Issue, 2) Learning about the Issue, 3) Project-Plan, and 4) Conclusion. Since the Task List and One-Year Project Timeline has been clarified in the Project Plan, students from ASEAN, Timor-Leste and Japanese will work together from now, keep in touch with each other and implement the joint activities.

JENESYS Indonesia and Timor-Leste Online Program: On Thursday, 13 October 2022, Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) as the implementing agency of JENESYS2022 held an online program for people involved in fisheries in Indonesia and Timor-Leste. As a lecturer, Mr. Fujiwara Takahiro from Resources Management Promotion Office, Fisheries and Resources Management Division, Resources Management Department, Fisheries Agency was invited to give a lecture on “Circumstances surrounding Japan fisheries and new resource management.” After receiving a detailed lecture on fisheries resource management, many questions were asked from the participants. It is hoped that this program will be meaningful to the participants and that it will be an opportunity for them to continue their relationship with Japan in the future.

Brunei Reunion with Japanese Embassy: A reunion for JENESYS Brunei alumni was held on 20 October 2022. Ms. Watanabe Eiko, Embassy of Japan in Brunei gave a presentation on the theme of “Japan’s Contribution in Brunei Darussalam”, explaining specific examples of economic, political, educational, and sports activities between Japan and Brunei. She also touched on the activities of JENESYS alumni.

Launched on 2 September 2022 by the ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP), the ASEAN Toolkit on Sustainable Consumption provides guidance and advocacy materials to enhance the understanding of government officials, businesses and consumer associations on the concept and policy implications.

Access the toolkit and infographic, and watch the video at www.aseanconsumer.org.

The development of the toolkit was led by the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines and funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) through the project Promotion of Sustainable Consumption in ASEAN.

On 3 – 7 October 2022, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) under the Electronics Transaction Development Agency (ETDA), Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) conducted the 23rd AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training to share the effective practices in dealing with cyber threats and to enhance the cybersecurity capacity of the ASEAN Member States. What is special about this training is that AJCCBC could finally welcome the participants again at its own facility in Bangkok, Thailand after being hindered by the pandemic for more than two years.

This training session covered two areas that are of the most importance for cybersecurity:

1) Incident Response course named CYDER (Cyber Defense Exercise with Recurrence), which focused on the improvement of the incident response ability to correspond against the cyberattacks through lecture, practical exercise based on actual attacks, and team discussion; and

2) Digital Forensics course which provided the participants with key skills in forensics techniques including how attackers attack servers in DMZ, how attackers attack client’s computers etc. which is based on simulation attack such as attack against servers in DMZ and APT attack.

This training is part of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Indonesia hosted the 2nd Regional Workshop on the Implementation of the ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2022 which was held on 29 August – 2 September 2022 in Serpong, South Tangerang.

The workshop organized by the ASEAN Secretariat and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) is part of the Review of ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2017/1 project funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), which aims to encourage the effectiveness of 2022 AHTN implementation and increase the capacity of customs administration staff in ASEAN in the field of classification.

The Workshop was attended by 32 customs administration employees from 10 ASEAN member countries and facilitated by resource persons/consultants from Sri Lanka, Japan, Cambodia, the Philippines, Viet Nam, and Indonesia.

DJBC also opens opportunities for other ASEAN member countries to learn from Indonesia regarding the development and management of customs laboratories or for those who need assistance regarding goods identification.

The ASEAN Plant Health Cooperation of ASEANET, in collaboration with National Crop Protection Center (NCPC) and the Department of Agriculture of Malaysia, conducted a 2-week Training Workshop on Diagnostics of Begomovirus and Development of LAMP-PCR at Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia on 19-30 September 2022. The activity was part of the Taxonomic Capacity Building to Support Market Access for Agricultural Trade in the ASEAN Region – Phase 2 funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and was attended by 23 participants representing 10 Southeast Asian countries.

In attendance were Ms. Mary Joy C. Mendoza, Dr. Marita S. Pinili, and Mr. Freddiewebb B. Signabon, NCPC researchers. Dr. Pinili also served as the regional coordinator for the activity.

The Plenary Meeting for the Pilot Peer Review of Malaysia’s Competition Commission (MyCC’s) Competition Advocacy Activities was held virtually following the successful undertaking of the inaugural ASEAN Voluntary Peer Review, which is consistent with deliverable 1.2.3 of the ASEAN Competition Action Plan (ACAP) 2025. The Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC), Mr Iskandar Ismail in his remarks reiterated that MyCC is the first Competition Authority to volunteer for the pilot peer review, contributing to ASEAN’s mission of attaining a level-playing field for all firms through an effective competition policy.

The Plenary Meeting which was participated by ASEAN Members States (AMS), a set of Peer Review Team, the ASEAN Secretariat, and a team of consultants, deliberated on the findings, key recommendations and takeaway points from the exercise.

The Meeting enabled AMS to learn from each other’s experiences, share best practices and perspectives on encountered common issues, and helped to deepen regional cooperation arrangements amongst AMS. The exercise has also helped to identify ways to improve the overall peer review exercise – to better select the methodology to be pursued, identify solutions to challenges presented throughout the peer reviewed process, and to obtain results that would best assist the peer reviewed country to strengthen their competition law frameworks.

The Peer Review Exercise is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), under the project entitled Technical Assistance for ASEAN Competition Authorities to Strengthen Competition Law Enforcement in ASEAN region – Second Phase.

The Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Coaching Clinic, jointly organised by the Lao PDR Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), JAIF Management Team (JMT), and the ASEAN Secretariat, took place on 18 August in Vientiane, Lao PDR.

The JAIF Coaching Clinic affirmed ASEAN and Japan’s commitment to bringing JAIF closer to its stakeholders by holding an in-country workshop-cum-consultation. The participants from various ministries had the opportunity to learn about JAIF’s cooperation and gained hands-on knowledge on developing project proposals to effectively implement JAIF projects.

 The one-day workshop was officially launched by Sitsangkhom Sisaketh, Deputy Director-General of ASEAN Department, of the Lao PDR MFA.

For his part, Naoki Minamiguchi, Director of JMT, highlighted an increasingly important role Lao PDR is playing in ASEAN in anticipation of its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024. He noted that more active formulation of JAIF projects by Lao proponents would contribute to narrowing the development gaps within the region, thereby further enhancing integration of ASEAN.

The 1st JAIF Coaching Clinic gathered about 30 officials from 18 line ministries. In addition to learning about JAIF’s cooperation, the participants learned about the ASEAN Development Cooperation programme from Jasper Belarmino Rom of the ASEAN Secretariat, followed by Phetphouthai Vongphouthai of the Permanent Mission of the Lao PDR to ASEAN who briefed the roles and responsibilities of the Committee of Permanent Representative to ASEAN for appraising ASEAN Development Cooperation project proposals.

An article covering this event in local language is also published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lao PDR.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre) continued to support Department of Disaster Prevention & Mitigation (DDPM) Thailand for the emergency response operations in the 13 areas affected by flooding due to the influence of Tropical Cyclone Noru. A total of 3,500 ASEAN family kits and 9,000 personal hygiene kits were released from the DELSA Satellite Warehouse in Chainat, Thailand and are now being distributed by DDPM Thailand to the affected communities. The AHA Centre commends DDPM Thailand for the ongoing efforts to help alleviate the suffering of the communities affected by the floods.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supports The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse and The Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase III Project.

The 20th ASEAN and Japan Transport Ministers Meeting (20th ATM+Japan) was held on 17 October 2022 in Bali, Indonesia. The Meeting was co-chaired H.E. Mr. Budi Karya Sumadi, Minister of Transportation of Indonesia and H.E. Nishida Shoji, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan.

ASEAN Member States welcomed the announcement of Japan to support the various activities based on the Kuala Lumpur Transport Strategic Plan 2016-2025 in the areas of air transport, land transport, maritime transport, sustainable transport and transport facilitation through projects and activities under the ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP) in a comprehensive and sustained manner.

The Meeting endorsed the ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP) Work Plan for 2022-2023 which would further enhance regional connectivity. Among the list of projects/activities in the AJTP Work Plan, the ongoing projects Advanced Personnel Training Program for Vessel Traffic Service (2020-2021) and Joint Hydrographic Survey of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Team gathered for an onboarding workshop the AMEN Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Technical Working Group (TWG) members from all 10 member-countries. The activity heralds the simultaneous conduct of the region-wide mentorship sessions from December 2022-May 2023.

AMEN consultants Virgilio Espeleta, Renea Cruz-Tan and Gaston Ortigas led the discussions and addressed the questions on the AMEN program flow, the selection process for the mentors and mentees as well as the defined roles of the AMEN PPP and TWG. Project Executive Director Engr Merly Cruz reiterated the importance of helping MSMEs especially as commodity prices and interest rates continue to rise and geopolitical tensions threaten economic growth across the globe. Members of ACCMSME and ASEAN BAC also have participated in the ongoing implementation of the ASEAN-wide mentorship program

The Government of Japan has been supporting AMEN since the implementation of first phase in 2019 through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre) continues the capacity building efforts for ASEAN-ERAT members by conducting Level 2 Course on Information Management and Rapid Needs & Damage Assessment. The course aims to strengthen ASEAN’s preparedness and response capacity to support collective, fast, and reliable disaster responses in accordance with humanitarian standards.

Supported by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), the course was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 26 September – 7 October 2022. Grateful also with the support from National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Malaysia and MapAction.

Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, in an interview with The Straits Times before his first official trip to Singapore, touched on strategic and bilateral issues, the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and Japan’s support to the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) which shares many fundamental principles with the FOIP.

In relation to the ASEAN-Japan golden jubilee next year, Minister Hayashi said that in its half-century of relations with ASEAN, Japan has not only been a close business partner, but also a true friend with a heart-to-heart connection, working together for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

In addition, Japan has fully supported the further deepening of ASEAN integration in various fields over the years, including assistance in correcting disparities within the region through Official Development Assistance (ODA) which provides aids to developing nations and the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which promotes ASEAN integration efforts and cooperation with Japan.

Now is the time for Japan and ASEAN to work closely together and strengthen cooperation. In particular, the FOIP promoted by Japan and the AOIP also share the fundamental principles of openness, transparency, inclusiveness and rule of law. Japan supports the AOIP and will promote cooperation through it.

As we mark the historic milestone of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan friendship and cooperation next year, we can together develop a new vision and take new steps forward together.

The emerging and re-emerging diseases caused by viruses are perhaps the most devastating ones and require immediate attention and remedies due to the manner of disease transmission, spread and distribution across wide geographical locations. Begomoviruses are remarkably the most successful group of emerging viruses (Briddon et al. 2010; Rojas & Gilbertson 2008).

A two-week training workshop was implemented on 19-30 September 2022 in Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia trained 23 plant pathologists and entomologists from ten Southeast Asian countries including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietam. Majority of the representatives are affiliated to the Plant Quarantine Centre and Plant Protection Division under their respective Departments of Agriculture, and some are from the academe.

The training workshop’s main objective is to gain in-depth knowledge and awareness about the devastating effect of Begomoviruses on economically important crops, and to draw immediate and long-term solutions to manage such risks through capacity building development among plant quarantine and plant protection experts in the ASEAN region.

The training workshop is part of Taxonomic Capacity Building to Support Market Access for Agricultural Trade in the ASEAN Region – Phase 2 supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in September 2022:

Hospitality in post-pandemic society: An online program for Lao PDR under the theme of “SDGs Management and Tourism – looking to post-pandemic society” was held on 16 September. Participants were students of Lao PDR university and vocational school majoring in tourism, hotel industry, and business. Prof. Kenta Hiramoto, Graduate School of Economics, Hokkaido University, gave participants a lecture on new knowledge about Japanese hospitality and management methods.

JENESYS Online Program for Lao PDR: About 40 participants from Lao PDR joined a lecture on understanding Japan given by Ms. Andrade Hisami on 9 September. Ms. Andrade introduced about Japanese geography, climate, society, culture, daily life, and many other topics. During the Q&A session, participants asked a lot of questions, such as Japanese traditional sweets, religion, and the origin of Japanese language. The participants seemed having fun experiencing “how to bow” and learning Japanese language phrase.

JENESYS Online Event for ASEAN Countries and Timor Leste: JICE hosted the online event for participants from ASEAN countries and Timor Leste on 30 August. In the beginning, the participants enjoyed some quizzes about Japan. After the quiz session, Mr. Yazawa, Principal Deputy Director, Regional Policy Division, Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) gave a lecture titled “50 years of ASEAN-Japan.” Participants deepened their understanding of long-lasting cooperative relationships. It is hoped that the online programme will contribute to the partnership between Japan and ASEAN countries and Timor Leste.

JENESYS Online Program for Cambodia: About 70 participants from Cambodia joined a lecture on understanding Japan given by Mr. Oda Yuichi, Professor of Chiba University on 1 September. Mr. Oda introduced about Japanese geography, society, habits, technology, culture and so many other topics. During the Q&A session, participants showed their enthusiast and asked a lot of questions such as about Japanese election system, education system and environmental situation.

JENESYS Online Program for Singapore and Malaysia: Almost 70 participants from Singapore and Malaysia enjoyed the online lecture of “Japan Today” given by Mr. Kimura Hideo, Executive Managing Director, Strategic International Management Associates (SIMA) on 27 September. All participants listened intently to the lecture such as Japanese history, culture, society, economy, and some SDGs topics. During the Q&A session, many questions such as the government’s plan to increase the population, popular foreign language for Japanese students and so on were asked and answered by Mr. Kimura which further deepened their understanding of Japan.

Taxonomic experts from different ASEAN Member States are attending the Post-training Evaluation Workshop and Writeshops on the Development of the Training Manual and Field Guidebook taking place in Bangkok, Thailand.

The event, organised by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau, is part of the Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics project that is implemented by the ACB with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and guidance from the ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team. Project partners also include the UP Diliman Institute of Biology and Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems.

The workshop and writeshop will finalise the Manual on DNA Barcoding of Vascular Plants of Southeast Asia and Field Guide to Vascular Plants of the Mudspring area, Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, which will be launched during the Seventh ASEAN Heritage Parks Conference.

Mission of Japan to ASEAN is back with another history recap of Japan and ASEAN cooperation.

Previously, we have looked at the Fukuda Doctrine and Five Principles of Japan’s ASEAN Diplomacy.

Let us now look at the Four Key Areas of Partnership, as the foundation of cooperation between Japan and ASEAN until this very day. Adopted on the Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation and its Implementation Plan dating back to 2013 that coincides with the 40th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations.

The Four Key Areas of Partnership:

1. Partners for Peace and Stability
2. Partners for Prosperity
3. Partners for Quality of Life
4. Heart-to-heart Partners

Let us learn further by swiping through the post above!

ASEAN Member States (AMS), the People’s Republic of China (China), Japan, and the Republic of Korea (Korea) met on 17 September 2022 for the Twenty-Fifth ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Plus Three Consultation. The Consultation was co-chaired by H.E. PAN Sorasak, Minister of Commerce, Kingdom of Cambodia, H.E. Li Fei, Assistant Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Hirai Hirohide, Vice Minister for International Affairs, Minister of Trade and Industry of Japan, and H.E. Dukgeun Ahn, Minister for Trade at the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy of Korea.

The Meeting noted that the post-COVID-19 economic recovery remains vulnerable to global economic challenges. The Meeting expressed its deep concerns on continued risks to global food and energy security, and rising inflationary pressure.

The Meeting reaffirmed their strong support to the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF) and ASEAN Plus Three Plan of Action on Mitigating the Economic Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the commitment to working closely together to address and mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as to advance regional recovery. The Meeting also welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund, the ASEAN Regional Reserve of Medical Supplies, and the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of ASEAN’s regional resilience.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) contributed USD 1 million to the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the implementation of projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

Read the full statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ADOPTED-Joint-Media-Statement-of-the-25th-AEM-Plus-Three-Consultation.pdf

ASEAN Member States (AMS), Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the Russian Federation and the United States met on 17 September 2022 for the Tenth East Asia Summit (EAS) Economic Ministers’ Meeting. The Meeting was chaired by H.E. PAN Sorasak, Minister of Commerce, Cambodia.

The Meeting expressed support to and noted the significant progress on the implementation of the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework, which serves as ASEAN’s consolidated exit strategy from the pandemic. The Meeting also welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund, the ASEAN Regional Reserve of Medical Supplies, and the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of ASEAN’s regional resilience.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) contributed USD 1 million to the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the implementation of projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

Read the full statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ASEAN-Media-Statement-on-the-EAS-EMM-10-1.pdf

The 54th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting was held in Siem Reap, Cambodia on 13 – 15 September 2022. The Meeting, which was chaired by Cambodia under the theme “ASEAN A.C.T.: Addressing Challenges Together” was preceded by a preparatory meeting of the ASEAN Senior Economic Officials (SEOM) and joint meetings with the 36th ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) Council, 25th ASEAN Investment Area (AIA) Council, and Consultations with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ABAC).

In relation to ASEAN Customs Integration, the Meeting welcomed the finalisation of the ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2022 and noted that Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand have implemented the AHTN 2022. The Meeting encouraged the remaining ASEAN Member States to intensify efforts to implement the AHTN 2022 by the end of 2022. The Review of ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2017/1 which is currently underway is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In terms of Technical Assistance and Capacity-Building, the Meeting expressed ASEAN’s appreciation to its dialogue and development partners, including JAIF, for the technical assistance they continue to provide to ASEAN’s Community-building efforts. The Meeting looked forward to their continued support and cooperation as ASEAN moves towards a stronger and more resilient ASEAN Economic Community.

The Japan Radio Air Navigation Systems Association (JRANSA) and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) have co-hosted the Symposium on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Implementation for ASEAN.

The Japan Radio Air Navigation Systems Association (JRANSA) and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) have co-hosted the Symposium on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Implementation for ASEAN.

The event is the first of many more activities that the country will take part in, towards the fulfillment of the GNSS Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA), which is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said among these activities include the initial installation of GNSS equipment in the country and the training of GNSS personnel that will be spearheaded by JRANSA at the Civil Aviation Training Center (CATC). The members of the symposium also conducted a facility visit at the CATC last 9 September 2022.

Apolonio said the event was attended by Katsuyuki Nakatsubo, CEO, Japan Radio Air Navigation Systems Association (JRANSA), Mr. Aung Soe Moe, Senior Officer (Air Transport), ASEAN Secretariat Office, Dr. Manjit Singh, Deputy Regional Director, ICAO Asia and Pacific Office, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Atty. Roberto C. Lim, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Hiroyuki Kudo, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, Takayuki Harada, Director, Air Traffic International Affairs Office, ANS Department, Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), Shingo IGUMA, First Secretary, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and delegates from the participating Southeast Asian countries.

On 8 September 2022, the symposium on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) implementation for Southeast Asian countries opened at the Makati Diamond Residences in Manila, with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The GNSS Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA) project hosted the symposium.

Aimed at improving capacity building for Filipino engineers and government officials, the program introduced GNSS technology to Philippine aviation agencies. The GNSS Technology utilizes the Space Satellite System standardized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This technology seeks to improve the rate of flight service and expand the safety and efficiency of civil aviation.

Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko recognized this initiative as a milestone for Japan-Philippines air and space cooperation. He also praised the progress of the GIPTA project as a symbolic collaboration under the “ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP)”, which serves as the guide for ASEAN’s engagement in the Asia-Pacific and the Indian Ocean regions.

The Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), officially established in early 2006, is a specific funding mechanism developed by the Government of Japan to support the continuous development of the ASEAN Community. As one of the top investors and the top Official Development Assistance (ODA) donor, the Government of Japan will continue its support for the Philippines in a variety of fields, including the space satellite field utilizing state-of-the-art Japanese technology.

Read full article from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines here: https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/11_000001_00961.html?fbclid=IwAR1IelmvEXUyw5NiuFEkhLXAZLoONAwO1T_SE2ra0pI0U7PN9UqsGwZYYQY

The “Are ASEAN Health Systems Prepared for Climate-Related Health Threats?” webinar called for accelerated multisectoral actions to address priority health issues and strengthen health systems to tackle climate-induced emergencies.

The webinar is part of the Public Health Emergencies webinar series under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platforms project supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Strengthening foresight on trends and challenges of climate change on regional health security was the focus of the first session.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASCC, Ekkaphab Phanthavong, highlighted that vulnerable and marginalised population in ASEAN will increasingly be hit hardest by the effects of climate change. He encouraged regional health systems to enhance social welfare, reduce inequalities, and contribute to sustainable development.

Actions to enhance health resilience in the region was the subject of the discussion sessions. Repurposing existing COVID-19 infrastructure and programmes to support next-generation resilient health systems were some low-hanging fruits that ASEAN should consider. Disaster awareness and literacy should also be strengthened. The discussions also highlighted political will is crucial to ensure that plans progress into legislation and financial support.

The Thailand and ASEAN Information Center (TAIC) announced the winners of TikTok Video Contest under the topic “Laugh, Live, Learn at ASEAN Library” to celebrate ASEAN’s 55th anniversary. This contest was targeted for students of Chulalangkorn University and ASEAN University Network.

The top three most liked TIKTOK clips get rewards worth THB 3,000 won by the contestant from Can Tho University, Chulalongkorn University and Thammasat University.

Watch the winner videos from below links:

https://www.tiktok.com/@nhanmbi/video/7122793713239182618?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

https://www.tiktok.com/@fitzplar/video/7117490769019145499?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

https://www.tiktok.com/@pleasedonttouchmyketchup/video/7122850847016504602?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

This contest was part of the project ASEAN Corner in Universities (Phase 1) supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) has launched the ASEAN Toolkit on Sustainable Consumption which comprises of tools and teaching materials aiming to enhance the understanding of government officials, consumer associations, and businesses, on the concept and policy implications of sustainable consumption.

Promoting Sustainable Consumption is in-line with the ASEAN Economic Blueprint (AEC) 2025, which recognizes the need to build higher consumer confidence including through the promotion of sustainable consumption. This strategic measure has been further elaborated under Goal 3 of the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for Consumer Protection (ASAPCP) 2025 which aims at ensuring higher consumer confidence in the ASEAN Economic Community and cross-border commercial transaction.

The development of the Toolkit was led by the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines and funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) through the project Promotion of Sustainable Consumption in ASEAN.

Please visit the ACCP website  to download the Toolkit and the set of advocacy materials, and watch an attractive video about the sustainable consumption here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QmuUmtrJEs&t=8s

JENESYS2022 aims to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan, ASEAN Member States, and Timor-Leste, to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation, as well as to encourage an understanding of various aspects of Japan. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). These are the highlights of JENESYS2022 activities conducted in August 2022:

JENESYS2022 Japan-ASEAN AOIP-FOIP Exchange: Learning about ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) was a good opportunity for ASEAN youth in preparation for the upcoming 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan friendship next year. Mr. Yazawa Hideki from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan gave a lecture about ASEAN-Japan relationships to the participants.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Indonesia: In this programme, Mr. Bando, President & Representative Director of PT Amerta Indah Otsuka, gave a lecture on their business, products, and activities in Indonesia.

JENESYS Online Japan-Visit Advanced Program (Theme: Disaster Prevention): About 40 participants, ranging from university students to working adults from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste joined this programme and exchanged their opinions on disaster prevention.

JENESYS Online Program for Myanmar: The participants from Myanmar enjoyed a wonderful lecture about Japan by Ms. Andrade Hisami. Various topics were introduced, such as Japanese society, culture, history, customs, Japanese people’s character, and so on.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Lao PDR: Mr. Hisaike Sadamitsu, President Director of Nishino Komuten Co., Ltd, presented the company’s initiatives in using Japanese wood processing technology to foster the building industry while also developing local human resources.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Viet Nam: Mr. Nishikawa Satoshi and Mr Đàm Mạnh Tuấn from AEON VIETNAM Co., Ltd gave a lecture on their business development in Viet Nam and how they try to enrich Vietnamese people’s life, as well as future plans.

First Online Program for ASEAN-Japan 50th Anniversary: About 50 participants from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste took part in this programme. The course provided an insight into the history of development cooperation between Japan and ASEAN. Participants learned a lot about wildlife conservation projects in Indonesia, Japan’s rich nature and sustainable lifestyle, research and study life in Japan, and so on.

JENESYS2022 Japan-ASEAN Alumni Online Program (Theme: SDGs): Fifty participants from ASEAN and Timor Leste got lectures for nine days,and had virtual visits to many institutes related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

JENESYS Online Program for Timor-Leste: Participants from Timor-Leste enjoyed fantastic lecture to understand Japan. Various topics were introduced such as Japanese society, culture, customs, Japanese people’s character and so on.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Cambodia: Mr. Kamata Keiya, chairperson of the board of directors of Sunrise Healthcare Service Co., Ltd, dedicated to offering “Japanese-style” medical service in Sunrise Japan Hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia gave a lecture on their services.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Timor Leste: In this programme, Mr. Goto from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Timor-Leste office gave a lecture on “JICA Projects and its relation with the people of Timor-Leste”. The participants learned a lot about JICA’s ongoing approach to support Timor-Leste to realise “Safe, Resilient and Attractive City” for the next generations.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Thailand: The Japan Foundation, Bangkok, which is dedicated to carrying out comprehensive international cultural exchange programs in Thailand gave a lecture on their programs.

JENESYS Alumni Program for Singapore: Hitachi Asia Ltd. gave a lecture regarding their business in Singapore and Asia. Their business covered various fields such as social innovation business that combines IT, operational technology, and products.

JENESYS Alumni Program for the Philippines: The SFTE-JV (Shimizu-Fujita-Takenaka-EEI Joint Venture), which is the Contractor of Contract Package CP101 of Metro Manila Subway Project gave a lecture. The Metro Manila Subway, also known Mega Manila Subway, is the biggest and first subway project in the Philippines. Through the lecture and Q&A session, participants learned challenges of this big project and key points of their management.

For High School Students in Timor-Leste and Secondary and Tertiary students aged 15-20 years old in Singapore, Japan-ASEAN Online Exchange for High School Students is now open.

Batch 3: Reconstruction Support of Disaster-Affected Areas

Batch 4: Peacebuilding

The JENESYS 2022 eight-day online program will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among the people of Japan and ASEAN Member States and Timor-Leste to build future friendship and cooperation. Participants will receive a completion certificate.

Date: Monday, 12 September 2022 – Thursday, 22 September 22

Interested participants may register by 7 September 2022 and check detailed schedule through this link:

https://jice.form.kintoneapp.com/…/jenesys2022-online…

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has announced the establishment of a secretariat of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) in Bangkok to improve preparedness for public health emergencies.

ACPHEED comes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused serious economic damage and stressed regional healthcare systems.

A meeting will be held in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, to choose the ACPHEED Secretary General and team, which will include specialists and medical professionals from all 10 nations. The official launching of ACPHEED will be in November 2022.

The ACPHEED project was initiated in 2020 with a feasibility study supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund. Japan donated $50 million for the project last year, and Australia has committed to helping fund the center. Thailand and fellow ASEAN members will pay up to $5 million annually to support ACPHEED operations.

Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s Minister of Health said the ACPHEED will serve as a center of excellence to strengthen ASEAN regional capacity in preventing, detecting, and responding to public health emergencies and emerging diseases.

From 24 to 25 August 2022, representatives from the University of the Philippines Diliman Institute of Biology, Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems, the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau, and the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) conducted a preparatory meeting-workshop on the development of the Field Guidebook on Common Vascular Plants Along the Mudspring Trail of the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve and Training Manual on DNA Barcoding of Vascular Plant Species for the Tropics.

These publications are being developed through the collaboration between the ACB and the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), which emphasises the importance of species identification, discovery, and communication through the conduct of taxonomic capacity enhancement activities in the ASEAN region.

Thailand has been chosen by the ASEAN Member States to establish an ASEAN Secretariat Office for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases. According to the public health permanent secretary, Dr Kiattiphum Wongrajit, the unit will serve as a centre of excellence and hub to strengthen ASEAN’s capability to handle public health emergencies and emerging diseases.

The project passed a feasibility study in 2020, which was supported by the Japanese government through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Last year, Tokyo also injected a further US$50 million (1.8 billion baht) towards the final stage of establishing a permanent facility in a chosen country.

With continued support from the ASEAN Member States and the Government of Japan, the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) under the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Ministry of Digital Economy of Thailand successfully completed the 22nd AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training, concentrating on Incident Response (CYDER) and Malware Analysis on 1 – 5 August 2022.

To create a more robust cybersecurity landscape within each ASEAN Member State, which would contribute to the region’s stronger cybersecurity posture, the Centre invited 24 professionals from government agencies and critical information infrastructure operators of the member states to participate in the session.

It is hoped the lessons on incident response where the participants can upskill their ability to correspond against cyberattacks, and malware analysis from which they can learn how to assume the behaviour of malware and its impacts by surface, dynamic lock, and static analyses will be of a great benefit to the participants and to the region.

The AJCCBC is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The 13th ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) Induction Course was conducted in Hua Hin, Thailand on 20 – 28 July 2022 with the support from the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Participants of this course came from the 10 ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Secretariat, and the AHA Centre.

Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axOSWQpeH_k

On 15 August 2022, the Center for ASEAN Studies, Chulalangkorn University, held an International Seminar during the Chula-ASEAN Week, entitled “Whither ASEAN in a Deeply Troubled World?”

The Chula-ASEAN Week was held on 15-17 August 2022 in hybrid form, both online and on-site at Mahachulalangkorn Building.

Watch the videos of seminars from the following links:

16 August:

(Morning session) Hierarchies of Weakness: What’s Next for ASEAN?

(Afternoon session) Understanding ASEAN’s Future Challenges: Stakeholders’ Perspectives

17 August:

(Morning session) ASEAN and Conflict Management and Response

(Afternoon session) Enhancing Unarmed Civilian Protection (UCP) in ASEAN

This event is part of ASEAN Corner in Universities (Phase 1) project supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Be the first to join the accredited training program on responsible investment!

With more than $205 billion per year in untapped green investment, the agriculture, food, and forestry sector in Southeast Asia has significant potential to yield Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) returns. To help realise this potential, Grow Asia is launching the ASEAN RAI Academy – an accredited learning program designed to help professionals from public, private and civil society organisations make more inclusive, responsible, and sustainable investments in the food, agriculture, and forestry sectors.

Watch the trailer here: https://lnkd.in/gnTpqaNr

Learn more about the ASEAN RAI Academy here: https://lnkd.in/dg6PB3Mz

This project on the Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Program to Implement ASEAN RAI Guidelines is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 8 August 2022, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) held graduation ceremony for the 7th Batch of AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme. Ms ADACHI Mayuko from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN made a congratulatory address to the 21 participants from 10 ASEAN Member States who have completed the programme. The Government of Japan has supported ACE programme through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) since its beginning.

Check out AHA Centre website and article on JAIF website to learn more about the project which aims to facilitate cooperation and coordination of disaster management amongst ASEAN Member States.

Watch the video showcasing activities of ACE Programme Batch 7 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQt8dAUHG94

The ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) 10+1 Sessions with ASEAN’s Dialogue Partners, namely Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America and two separate Trilateral Meetings between Cambodia and ASEAN Secretariat with Türkiye and Switzerland were held in Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia, on 3-4 August 2022.

The Meeting highly appreciated Japan’s continued support for ASEAN’s integration and Community-building efforts through the implementation of Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan IV (2021-2025) supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and encouraged the continued effective implementation of the ASEAN-Japan Technical Cooperation Agreement (TCA).

Read the full statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Final_Chairmans_Statement_of_PMC_101_Sessions_with_DPs__Trilateral-Meetings.pdf

On 12 July 2022, Chula-ASEAN Corner 2ndTalk held at Chulalangkorn University presented the research of Rider Welfare Issues in the Platform Economy.

Akkanut Wantanasombut, a researcher at Chulalongkorn University’s Institute of Asian Studies, described his research results on 435 food riders in the food delivery service business in Bangkok and some provinces in Thailand. The food delivery business in Thailand was growing in the raging pandemic, meanwhile, the entailing issues in social welfare, unfair employment, deputing between platforms and food riders, and vague labor laws emerged.

The statistics from this research show that 45% of food riders tend to work overtime for more than 60 hours per week; 33.5 % ever get into accidents while working due to attempts at shortening delivery time, usage of applications and GPS on mobile when riding, and unfamiliarity with maps, etc. These issues lead to self-compensated medical care resulting from the ambiguous relationship between the platform companies and food riders, and the riders’ status also worsens the issues because they are not part of the formal labor system.

The research result reflects the food rider’s needs from the company and government in better social welfare, health insurance, and minimum income guarantee as the baseline of their payment and benefit regardless of their service areas as each area has different costs of operation. For the part of the government, the service riders need laws or policies to protect and regulate the labor in platform businesses equal and indiscrimination to other occupations.

The article in Thai is also available here:

https://www.car.chula.ac.th/activity_detail.php?id=370&fbclid=IwAR16kXAtM3DttTDGQ8FLzlf82Xrz61EhFzoaTRajb5-TJlN96qAKR-XILic

Chula-ASEAN Talk is part of ASEAN Corner in Universities (Phase 1) project supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The 23rd ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held on 4 August 2022 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and chaired by His Excellency PRAK Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia.

The Meeting reaffirmed the role of APT cooperation in mitigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Meeting acknowledged the support and contribution of the Plus Three countries to ASEAN Member States, and ASEAN’s initiatives in addressing COVID-19, among others, the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) and the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund.

Apart from the USD 1 million contribution to the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund, the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) also supported these ASEAN’s initiatives through the projects A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

In the area of disaster management, the Meeting encouraged the enhancement of regional cooperation on disaster management and emergency response by promoting cooperation on policy coordination, information exchanges and conducting joint exercises to effectively promote disaster management and reduce disaster risks and losses in the region by providing support toward the ongoing implementation of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 and the implementation of the ASEAN SHIELD initiative.

JAIF supported the AADMER Work Programme (AWP) 2021-2025 Web-based Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) System, a secured online platform which is formulated to ease the conduct of the monitoring processes and to provide real-time monitoring data that informs and guides the AADMER Work Programme implementation.

Read the full statement here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Final-Chairmans_statement_of_the_23rd_APTFMM.pdf

On 5 August 2022, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary-General of ASEAN, during his visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia to attend the ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

On the Review of ASEAN-Japan Cooperation and Future Directions, Minister Hayashi stated ASEAN-Japan relations had made significant progress through comprehensive cooperation in line with the four Partnerships, namely: Partner for Peace and Stability, Partner for Prosperity, Partner for Quality of Life, and Heart to Heart Partner since then-Prime Minister Abe and ASEAN Leaders adopted the Vision Statement at the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit for the 40th Year of Friendship and Cooperation in 2013.

Minister Hayashi mentioned that Japan had been consistently supporting ASEAN centrality and unity, and had been the first to announce its support for ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). He explained that Japan had been implementing concrete cooperation projects towards the realisation of both Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and AOIP. In addition, he also reiterated Japan’s intention to hold a Commemorative Summit that marks the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan relations and to jointly announce a vision for future ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation on that historic occasion.

In response, Secretary-General Lim expressed that he highly valued Japan’s cooperation in the field of Politics and Security, Economy, Social and Cultural issues, as well as Japan’s contributions to ASEAN’s community building efforts. He also expressed his appreciation for Japan’s assistance to the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED), economic recovery from COVID-19 pandemic, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and technical cooperation. He expressed his hope that a vision which would be announced at the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of Friendship and Cooperation, would further strengthen ASEAN-Japan cooperation.

The announcement everyone has been waiting for is here! Congratulations to the winners of the Logo Design and Catchphrase Competition for the 50th Year ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

The philosophy behind the logo:

The red circle represents the Japanese flag; wrapped in a mobius ring of ribbons where each bound stalks of rice represents each ASEAN Member States. Southeast Asian countries are connected by the ocean; this is incorporated by the blue waves into the logo.

This logo and catchphrase will be used officially to commemorate the golden anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations taking place next year, 2023.

The official announcement from MOFA Japan can also be viewed through the links below:

https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press1e_000316.html

Winner and runners-up announcement from Japan-ASEAN Centre:

https://www.asean.or.jp/en/ajc-info/20220804-3/

The official logo and catchphrase for “The 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation” were announced at the ASEAN-Japan Ministerial Meeting on 4 August 2022 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The Logo Design and Catchphrase Contest for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation attracted 393 entries for the logo design and 620 entries for the catchphrase from ASEAN Member States and Japan.

The ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee, comprising the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, has selected the following winners whose work are now the official logo and catchphrase for “the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”:

Logo Design – TANABE Masaya from Japan

Catchphrase – Marlon Villones GUERRERO from the Philippines

In 2023, there will be numerous commemorative events and exchange programmes to be held in commemoration with “the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”. The official logo and catchphrase may be used in both Japan and ASEAN Member States for these activities.

Information regarding commemorative events and exchange programmes, will be posted on the website of ASEAN-Japan Centre: https://www.asean.or.jp/en/.

The official announcement from MOFA Japan can also be viewed from the link below:

https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press1e_000316.html

Following the successful conduct of the 3rd ASEAN Consumer Protection Conference (ACPC) last 28 June 2022, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Philippines informs the public that two (2) of the ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) deliverables that are now available in the ACCP website.

Officially launched during the Conference, ASEAN consumers can now access the Learning Management System which offers modules on consumer protection to raise public awareness and vigilance across the 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam. The general public can gain a better understanding of consumer issues and disputes by using these free interactive online distance learning tools.

Another ACCP deliverable is the development of the ASEAN Sustainable Consumption Toolkit (SCT) consisting of five (5) modules, which promotes Sustainable Consumption and Production. The availability of this toolkit in the ACCP website is set on August 2022. The modules are output of Promotion of Sustainable Consumption in ASEAN project, supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN-ERAT Induction Course is finally back!

Thirty-two participants of the 13th ASEAN-ERAT Induction Course joined the Opening Ceremony held on 21 July 2022 in Hua Hin, Thailand.

By the end of the course, these participants will be ready to be deployed to support affected ASEAN Member States in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

The course is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration (JAIF) under the project Strengthening ASEAN’s Collective Response Capacity through the Enhancement of the Capacity Building of the Regional ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) (2020 – 2022) which is currently underway.

GO Negosyo, an entrepreneurship advocacy group in the Philippines, aims to foster stronger collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to continue empowering the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that “will be crucial to the recovery of the Philippines from the pandemic,” its founder Jose Maria Concepcion III said in his recent meeting with Trade Secretary. The meeting discussed the continuation of Go Negosyo’s partnership with DTI and possible collaborations to further develop MSMEs.

The meeting agenda also includes the continuation of the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurship Network (AMEN) Project, which was recently awarded a grant from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), according to Concepcion. This, he said, “brings the legacy project of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council–Philippines to its second phase, where small entrepreneurs can scale up to the regional level, and the network of mentors is increased and expanded.”

Former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo passed away on 8 July 2022.

Youth exchange programs including “Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs”, supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund since 2007, was originally started by his strong leadership and initiative.

As the implementing agency for many JENESYS programmes, JICE appreciates condolence messages sent from all over the world.

On 8 July 2022, the Former Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. ABE Shinzo, passed away.

Possessing outstanding leadership and execution ability, Mr. ABE Shinzo, at the risk of his own life, took on the weighty responsibility of being prime minister. He did so over a total of eight years and eight months, the longest period in Japan’s constitutional history.

In terms of supporting the Japan-ASEAN relations, Mr. ABE Shinzo pledged USD 100,000,000 through JAIF 2.0 component to strengthen cooperation for ASEAN integration. JAIF 2.0 is intended to support activities to achieve the objectives of the Vision Statement and its Implementation Plan adopted at the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in 2013.

Upon hearing the sudden news of his death, we cannot hold back our grief. Here, together with all of you, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN extend heartfelt condolences and pray that he rests in peace.

The ASEAN Corner in Universities is a pilot programme to establish information centres in the libraries of higher education institutions in the ASEAN Member States. The ASEAN Corners will provide authoritative information about ASEAN through multi-media resource collections e.g. books, maps, digital information, language instructions, infographics, periodicals such as The ASEAN magazine, reports, statistics, etc. covering a wide range of topics (political-security, economic, and socio-cultural).

The ASEAN Corners will thus serve as a knowledge hub for students and academics, and further promote ASEAN awareness and identity. Each corner will also have a dedicated computer terminal or handheld device. Those who are interested are encouraged to visit at the Thailand and ASEAN Information Center (TAIC) Central Library on the 6th floor.

The ASEAN Corner in Universities (Phase 1) project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Ten member universities of the ASEAN University Network (AUN) including Chulalongkorn University are participating in this project.

More than 50 participants attended a Book Launch of the ASEAN Institute for Peace & Reconciliation’s (ASEAN-IPR) Research Project, “Aceh Case: Peace Building and Post-Tsunami Recovery”, on Monday, 27 June 2022. The launch was done in hybrid format with in-person participants attending at the Training Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia while those participating virtually joined through Zoom Meeting platform. This is the Institute’s second ever research project and was supported by the Mission of Japan to ASEAN through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In his opening remarks, the Representative of Indonesia to the ASEAN-IPR Governing Council, H.E Umar Hadi, underlined that the Research’s main objective had been successfully achieved to find the roles of post-humanitarian actors with their further assistance in peacebuilding.

Ambassador of Mission of Japan to ASEAN, H.E CHIBA Akira, highlighted this publication as Japan’s commitment to work closely with ASEAN to promote peace in the region. He underlined that the unprecedented disaster plays a role in building humanitarian approaches to peace and post-conflict resolution. He also highlighted that the implementation and distribution of humanitarian assistance in Aceh could be applied within the region and the world.

A short summary of this event is also posted on ASEAN Institute for Peace & Reconciliation -AIPR Facebook page:

https://web.facebook.com/asean.aipr/posts/pfbid02DFcWazjHhB19Qve9Kkro5bXiGVKP8Vrnf22KfDeZzcJqrMkZctLj4jSKZ9RVbcoUl?_rdc=1&_rdr

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Philippines, as one of the agencies that advocates for sustainable consumption, launched the ASEAN Sustainable Consumption Toolkit (SCT) on 28 June 2022, at the 3rd ASEAN Consumer Protection Conference (APCP).

One of the key deliverables of the ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) is the creation of the ASEAN SCT. As defined in Goal 4 of the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for Consumer Protection 2025 (ASAPCP) and the ASEAN Economic Blueprint 2025, the development and implementation of sustainable consumption policies increase consumer confidence.

The DTI, as the country’s representative to the ACCP, is the primary proponent of the tool kit’s development. The toolkit consists of five (5) modules designed to increase understanding of sustainable consumption among government officials and relevant stakeholders:

• Module 1: Understanding the concepts and principles of sustainable consumption;
• Module 2: Best practices and approaches to policies that promotes sustainable consumption;
• Module 3: Tools and instruments used in influencing consumer behavior, communication/information provision tools such as product information through labeling and certification, economic instruments such as incentives, and regulatory instruments;
• Module 4: Use of appropriate instruments and tools in selected areas such as food sector, energy, and consumer electronics; and
• Module 5: Development of a set of advocacy materials such as PowerPoint slides, infographics, and audio-visual, among others, to be used by officials and the public to promote sustainable consumption among consumers.

These modules include training manuals for trainers and facilitators and multimedia presentations such as PowerPoint slides and audio-visual materials. The ASEAN SCT will be available in the ACCP website.

The modules are output of Promotion of Sustainable Consumption in ASEAN project, supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

This virtual regional event on the Implementation of the ASEAN Guidelines on Promoting Responsible Investment in Food, Agriculture, and Forestry (ASEAN-RAI) gathered different stakeholders from the government, public sector, private sector, and civil society organisations to provide key updates on the progress on the ten year action plan of the ASEAN-RAI, feature initiatives such as the Alignment Assessment tool for ASEAN Member States, actions by companies that are embedding responsible practices engagement on attendees to provide feedback on existing activities and future directions.​

​Implementation of the ASEAN-RAI Guidelines is supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The organization of the regional event is also supported by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Germany (BMEL).

Watch the event highlight from the ASEAN-RAI here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2DX-BFosFc

The Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of Indonesia (Kemenkop UKM) is strengthening the MSMEs program through regional cooperation at the ASEAN level, by regularly participating in the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (ACCMSME) meeting which is held twice a year.

The Ministry joined the 13th ACCMSME and related meetings held under the chairmanship of Myanmar, with various discussion agendas covering issues and initiatives regarding the development of MSMEs both at the national and regional ASEAN levels.

During the dialog between ACCMSME and Japan, a discussion was held on the possibility of resuming the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneur Network (AMEN) Phase 2 project with funding support from the Japanese government. Indonesia expressed interest in participating in the project again after participating in the previous phase.

Supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneur Network (AMEN) Phase 2 is currently underway.

How well do you know about ASEAN-Japan relations? Take a look at major milestones of ASEAN-Japan journey in the past 50 years:

1973 – ASEAN-Japan dialogue on synthetic rubber

1977 – 1st ASEAN-Japan Summit, Fukuda Doctrine announced

1981 – ASEAN-Japan Centre established

2006 －Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) established

2011 – Mission of Japan to ASEAN established in Jakarta

2023 – ASEAN-Japan 50th Commemoration

Senior Officials from ASEAN and Japan reaffirmed commitment to further strengthen cooperation and advance their partnership towards the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations next year. The Senior Officials met at the 37th ASEAN-Japan Forum held yesterday via videoconference. The meeting took note of the substantive progress made in ASEAN-Japan cooperation over the past one year in the four pillars of peace and stability, prosperity, quality of life, and heart-to-heart partnerships.

ASEAN welcomed Japan’s support to ASEAN Community building efforts, and in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, including Japan’s substantial contribution for the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases Centre (ACPHEED). ASEAN and Japan underlined the need to enhance cooperation on peace and stability, trade and connectivity, health security, digital transformation, smart cities, environment protection, sustainable development and resilience, and people-to-people exchange.

Both sides also agreed to strengthen practical cooperation in the key areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), in line with the Joint Statement of the 23rd ASEAN-Japan Summit on Cooperation on the AOIP. The two sides agreed on the designation of 2023 as the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, with a series of events to be conducted by both sides throughout the year.

The Feasibility Study on the Establishment of ACPHEED and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the ACPHEED projects are supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Effective and safe medicine is essential to maintain and improve public health and it is the responsibility of regulators in all countries of the world to carry out their monitoring. Therefore, the global harmonisation of technical regulatory requirements for the approval of medicinal products and cooperation among the authorities is essential for realising product review and efficient exchange of safety information.

The Risk Management Plan (RMP) is a breakthrough developed by the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) to provide information on the safety profile of drugs.

The University of Indonesia (UI) through the Faculty of Pharmacy (FF) is trusted as the implementing agency of the ASEAN-Japan Risk Management Plan Symposium and Seminar 2022, co-hosted by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM RI) and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) Japan. This symposium and seminar, funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as part of the project ASEAN-Japan Pharmaceuticals Training in Risk Management Plan, aims to enhance efforts to harmonise drug regulations among the ASEAN Member States.

The ASEAN-Japan RMP Symposium and Seminar 2022 was held virtually for three days, on 23-25 May 2022. The symposium which was held on the first day had discussion on pharmacovigilance activities in Japan, the current status of RMP and the perspective of regulators in Indonesia, and the role of labelling to minimise risks. On the next day, the seminar was held with the same focus as the symposium, which is to discuss the latest information related to RMP as an official regulation. The seminar is intended for regulatory staffs in ASEAN Member States. The speakers of the ASEAN-Japan RMP Symposium and Seminar 2022 are experts from PMDA Japan, Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, and BPOM RI.

The PMDA also captured these events on their Newsletter June 2002 on page 2.

On 19 June 2022, the Professional Training Center for Standards, Metrology and Quality – General Department of Quality Assurance in collaboration with the Japan Standards Association (JSA) held the QC KENTEI examination in Hanoi.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Le Minh Tam – Deputy Director in charge of the Professional Training Center for Standards, Metrology and Quality (QTC) said, QTC cooperated with the Department of International Cooperation have been worked with the JSA for the past three years to receive all learning materials, processes, and organisational guidelines for the QC KENTEI Level 4 exam. QC KENTEI is an exam that evaluates and certifies the level of knowledge and competence in quality management, quality control of personnel working in quality management or interested in learning about quality management.

“QC KENTEI Level 4 Pilot Examination is expected to bring to the Vietnamese business community a methodical examination and certification system, which is recognized in Japan for the competence of quality control and management personnel,” Mr. Tam emphasized.

Also, at the opening of the contest, Mr. Ha Minh Hiep – Deputy Director General in charge of the General Department said that quality management plays an important role, having a profound and multifaceted impact on various fields, from products to industries, production and business, scientific research, technological development to environmental protection, safety and human health, social justice and national interests. In the current economic integration conditions, constantly improving the quality of products and goods is the key to improving the competitiveness of enterprises and countries.

According to Mr. Ha Minh Hiep, the efforts of the Government of Viet Nam cannot be achieved without the very effective support of international cooperation projects. The ASEAN Cooperation project Development of ASEAN Common Qualification Scheme for Quality Control Experts has been supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) since 2019. The project aims to support improving the quality control capacity of employees in companies, schools, and other organizations, contributing to improving the quality of products and services in ASEAN countries. The project wishes to design a common competency recognition system to assess the quality control expertise of all employees of companies in the ASEAN region.

On 15 June 2022, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN launched their official account on Instagram.

On their very first post, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, through a video message, welcoming everyone to the official account of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN and thanking for the enthusiastic participation in the Japan-ASEAN 50th Year Anniversary Logo Design and Catchphrase contest. The contest has moved on to phase two, for judgement by the juries. Ambassador Chiba wishes everyone good luck and stay tune for more updates.

Follow @japanmissiontoasean on Instagram and join the journey of Japan-ASEAN relations, and to many activities the Mission have in store.

The webinar on “Transforming ASEAN’s Digital Health Landscape to Improve Regional Health” called for regional cooperation and multi-stakeholder partnerships to invest and collaborate on digital health transformation to support ASEAN’s post-COVID-19 recovery.

The event is the first of a series of ASEAN Public Health Emergencies webinars under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platform Programme supported by the Japanese government through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

 Representatives from the ASEAN sectoral bodies on health, social welfare, rural development, and poverty eradication, as well as ASEAN’s working group on livestock and health service, the World Health Organization (South East Asia Regional Office and Western Pacific Regional Office), the World Organization for Animal Health, the South East Asia One Health University Network, the Asia-Europe Foundation, and the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT) attended the event.

On Thursday 9 June 2022, Grow Asia and their partners held a successful ASEAN-RAI Regional Event with 160+ participants dialing in.

Grow Asia as the host was thrilled to see a very diverse group of attendees, representing professionals from the private, public, and civil society sectors. The key takeaway from the event is that multistakeholder approach will drive transformative change in investment practices and policies in ASEAN.

For those who missed the event, the records can be accessed from the following resources:

Webinar Recording: https://bit.ly/3NRWLaz

Presentation Slides: https://bit.ly/3Of7xrq

The event was co-organised by International Institute for Sustainable Development and the ASEAN Secretariat. Grow Asia also thanked to their donors for supporting the implementation of the ASEAN-RAI, namely the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The project on Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Programme to Implement ASEAN-RAI Guidelines is currently underway.

Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center/Inland Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (SEAFDEC/IFRDMD) attended the JAIF Eel Project Internal Meeting on 7 June 2022. The participants were the people who joined the project of the Eel Fishery activity namely Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia budgeted by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). During the meeting, IFRDMD delivered the progress result of the eel catch sample survey and DNA survey and got some input from participants.

The Indonesian National Agency of Food and Drug Control in collaboration with the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) of Japan and the Faculty of Pharmacy – University of Indonesia held a virtual symposium and seminar on the Risk Management Plan (RMP) in the pharmaceutical sector on Monday, 23 May 2022.

This symposium and seminar are follow-up events of the collaboration between PMDA and the Pharmaceutical Product Working Group (PPWG), under the ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality (ACCSQ), with funding from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The three-days event aimed to increase the capacity of regulators towards harmonisation of regulations in the pharmaceutical sector. It is also hoped the regulators will be able to continue the steps towards developing harmonious RMP standards and strengthen relations and increase cooperation between Japan and ASEAN countries, especially in the field of regulation of pharmaceutical products.

“Kaizen”, “Quality Management” and “Quality Control” are the keywords for realising better quality products and services, and capacity in these activities is based on knowledge and experience.

QC KENTEI (Quality Management and Quality Control Examination) is a measure for assessing knowledge of QM, QC and Kaizen, and is intended for people working or preparing to work in any organization.

Japanese Standards Association (JSA) administers QC KENTEI and the first examination was conducted in 2005. As of Sept 2021, a total of 1.322 million examinees had attended the exam. For note, currently QC KENTEI is provided in Japanese only.

For the first time QC KENTEI examination will be conducted in Malaysia. JSA had collaborated with Standards Malaysia and Universiti Kuala Lumpur MITEC to offer QC KENTEI qualifying examination. It will be opened to all qualified Malaysian workers with no charge.

The exam will be limited to 100 participants only and interest applicants can register from below link:

https://unikl-lean.wixsite.com/qc-kentei/support

This project Development of ASEAN Common Qualification Scheme for Quality Control Experts is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

“Kaizen”, “Quality Management (QM)” and “Quality Control (QC)” are the keywords for realizing better quality products and services, and capacity in these activities is based on knowledge and experience. QC KENTEI (Quality Management and Quality Control Examination) is a measure for assessing knowledge of QM, QC and Kaizen, and it is intended for people working or preparing to work in any organization.

Japanese Standards Association (JSA) administers QC KENTEI and the first examination was conducted in 2005. As of September 2021, a total of 1.322 million examinees had attended the exam. For note, currently QC KENTEI is provided in Japanese only.

For the first time, QC KENTEI examination will be conducted in Viet Nam. JSA had collaborated with Quality Training Centre (STAMEQ) to offer QC KENTEI qualifying examination to all qualified Viet Nam workers with no charge.

For further information, please visit related articles on QC KENTEI:

• Benefits of owning a QC KENTEI Certificate: http://qtc.gov.vn/loi-ich-khi-so-huu-chung-chi-qc-Kentei/
• FAQ about QC KENTEI Level 4 Pilot Exam in Viet Nam: http://qtc.gov.vn/faqs-qc-Kentei-cac-cau-hoi-thuong-gap-ve-ky-thi-qc-Kentei-cap-do-4-thi-diem-tai-viet-nam/
• Sharing experience about QC KENTEI competitions in Japan: http://qtc.gov.vn/trai-nghiem-thi-qc-Kentei-tai-nhat-ban/

This project Development of ASEAN Common Qualification Scheme for Quality Control Experts is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Girard Philip E. Bonotan who was part of the ASEAN project team that worked on the first phase of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA), shared his personal insights on the planning of virtual archive’s inaugural exhibition and the role of digital technology in cultural education.

As a former officer of the ASEAN Secretariat’s Culture and Information Division (CID), Bonotan have personally seen how the ACHDA project developed over the years. It was conceived as one of the key recommendations of the ASEAN Member States during a workshop participated by museum professionals in 2015. There were many discussions hold with the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting for Culture and the Arts (SOMCA) and ASEAN Committee on Culture and Information (ASEAN COCI) to refine the project and make it relevant to their needs. The initial phase of the project was participated by museums and libraries of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported the project and partnered with the digitising company, NTT Data.

The ACHDA website was launched in early 2020, and less than a month later many countries went into lockdown. Access to digital resources became increasingly important, and Bonotan believes ACHDA proved its immense value in continuing cultural education when the vast majority of people could not visit museums. Digitised collections such as the ACHDA act as effective bridges between people and their heritage, not necessarily to replace the functions of museums but to complement them.

Read the full article in The ASEAN Issue 21 2022 (page 68-69).

ASEAN launched the inaugural e-exhibition of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project on 26 November 2021. The virtual launch cum webinar has the theme “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation.” The Government of Japan supports the ACHDA project and e-exhibition through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

At the webinar, a panel of seven experts discussed “Reimagining E-Exhibitions During COVID-19.” The experts, representing cultural institutions from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Japan, shared best practices in transitioning exhibitions from the physical to the digital sphere given the ongoing pandemic. Japanese telecommunications company NTT DATA, which handled the digitisation of artefacts for the ACHDA project, described the prototype 3D virtual space showcasing select cultural heritage items from the ACHDA based on NTT DATA’s service named “DOOR.” The panel session sparked discussions on the challenges faced by museums, galleries, and libraries in engaging the public during COVID-19, public reception of the online exhibits, and how smaller cultural institutions would be able to digitise their collections using available resources.

The ACHDA e-exhibition comes at a timely moment, showcasing how cultural institutions can organise cultural projects and activities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Accelerated digital adoption and consumption, under the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, will only make technology more integral to people’s cultural life. The e-exhibition and webinar hope to propel cultural institutions to reflect on their current capacities and gradually move towards digital adoption in order to enhance their services, widen their reach, and remain relevant in the future.

Read the full article in The ASEAN Issue 21 2022 (page 66-67).

An INTERPOL-led operation targeting malware cyber fraud across Southeast Asia has led to the Nigeria arrest of three suspected global scammers in possession of fake documents, including fraudulent invoices and forged official letters. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested the suspects in a sting operation conducted simultaneously in the Lagos suburb of Ajegunle and in Benin City, 300 km to the East of the commercial capital. The Nigerian sting operation comes as part of a global operation codenamed “Killer Bee” involving INTERPOL’s General Secretariat headquarters and National Central Bureaus (NCBs) and law enforcement agencies in 11 countries across Southeast Asia.

“Cybercrime is spreading at a fast pace, with new trends constantly emerging. Through operations like Killer Bee, INTERPOL supports EFCC in keeping pace with new technologies and understanding the possibilities they create for criminals and how they can be used as tools for fighting cybercrime,” said EFCC’s Director of Operations, Abdulkarim Chukkol.

“The enforcement actions led by Nigeria and coordinated with INTERPOL send a clear message that cybercrime will have serious repercussions for those involved in business email compromise fraud, particularly in Nigeria,” added Mr. Chukkol.

Operation Killer Bee is led by the ASEAN Cybercrime Operations Desk, which is funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and supported by the Singapore Government.

To enhance the capacity of cybersecurity personnel of ASEAN Member States, on 9 – 13 May 2022, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) under Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has successfully conducted the 20th Online AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training, focusing on two courses, including CYDER and Malware Analysis.

CYDER is an incident response training that focuses on the ability to correspond against the cyberattacks, prioritizing the cyber invasion from the impact that occurs on the organization appropriately from the incident handling based on an actual cyberattack.

Malware Analysis is the training that revolves around the process of understanding the behaviour and purpose of malware for cyber risk assessment and to prevent future attacks on businesses and organisations.

Despite the absence of in-person training due to the policy applied to limit COVID-19 exposure, the 25 participants from the ASEAN Member States have harvested fruitful knowledge in order to protect their respective organizations and countries. The Centre still looks forward to contributing more to the region.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) was funded by Japan ASEAN Integration Fund with the aim to develop a cybersecurity workforce of 700+ over 4 years to enhance the capacity of cybersecurity experts and specialists in the ASEAN Member States by providing trainings and other activities to participants from the region.

In 2023, Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will celebrate 50 years of friendship and cooperation. In conjunction with this, a call has been launched for a logo mark and catchphrase to commemorate the 50th anniversary. On the 19 April 2022, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, gave an interview to the Jakarta Shimbun newspaper. He spoke about Japan’s desire to be close to ASEAN.

Ambassador Chiba began by asking, “What is the appropriate name to call the 50th anniversary? He explained that the government office would not come up with a logo or catchphrase, but would like to solicit applications from a wide range of people in Japan and ASEAN countries.”

The 40th anniversary celebration 10 years ago also called for entries, and 113 logos and 551 catch phrases were submitted. The winner for logo was a Cambodian and the catch phrase was a Japanese.

Ambassador Chiba said, “This is the 50th anniversary of Japan-ASEAN relations. ASEAN is celebrating its 50th anniversary. However, the relationship between Japan and Southeast Asia can be traced back to 500 years ago, when trade began. Five of these years have been marked by the unfortunate history of war, which should not be forgotten, but in light of this, Japan has stood by Southeast Asia,” he said, stressing the importance of the cooperative relationship.

The deadline for submission was closed on 15 June 2022. One winning entry and two runners-up will be selected for the logo and catchphrase, respectively, and the results will be announced in August 2022.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (heritage.asean.org) is now accessible in 6 languages!

Displaying the diversity of ASEAN, Khmer, Indonesian, Malay, Burmese, and Thai are presented together with English.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

In times of disaster, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) mobilises resources, including stockpiled relief items, to ASEAN countries facing post-disaster emergency situations.

Learn more about the challenges faced by AHA Centre and other regional humanitarian organisations in mobilising resources in support of disaster affected countries at the upcoming Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) side event on 27 May 2022.

The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project which is currently underway is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund. By establishing satellite warehouses and pre-positioning stockpile in strategic locations such as in Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, ASEAN will significantly improve response time to mobilise the resources to ASEAN countries.

In the last instalment of ASEAN 101 series, Director Rodora Babaran convinces our audience that ASEAN emerges from the COVID-19 crisis better, stronger and more resilient. Watch to see ASEAN crisis mechanisms and initiatives.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund provides supports to the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases with the project A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”, followed by Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”.

The Southeast Asian Nations are undergoing rapid socio-economic transformations with associated dynamic changes in the hazard, vulnerability, and risk characteristics. Climate change and human induced factors such as dense human settlements and socio-economic activities near fragile areas are expected to exacerbate these risks acting as a threat multiplier. Institutions in Southeast Asian countries are putting in place overarching disaster risk reduction plans and policies from national to local level; and rapidly progressing towards localizing them to specific sectors with robust implementation at the community level. There is a need to strengthen these efforts by addressing the systemic risks brought by climate change affecting the disaster vulnerability.

Keeping the above background in view, a project was implemented to assess the systemic risks of floods and landslides in selected river basins by integrating climate change projections into risk assessments in cooperation with the ASEAN Working Group on Prevention and Mitigation (WG P&M) of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

This paper presents the results of the project succinctly and outlines the guidelines developed for practitioners and decision-makers to understand systemic risks and address systemic risks through planning processes. Developing forward-looking risk assessments equipped decision-makers with the ability to manage rapidly changing risk profiles because of climate change and related uncertainties.

Japan will commit to help funding the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) as a preparatory measure against a potential new pandemic, Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated.

During the 15th ASEAN Health Ministers’ Meeting online press conference on Sunday evening, he noted that in general, ACPHEED’s work principle was similar to the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).”This centre guides the capability and capacity from the entire ASEAN to prepare themselves in case there is a potential new pandemic,” he explained. ACPHEED’s work division, authority, and founding mission had already been agreed, he noted. Three pillars that form the ACPHEED are surveillance or detection, response, and management risk.

Since 2020, the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund have been supporting the setting up of ACPHEED with the project A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”, followed by Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” which currently underway.

The Japan’s supports to ACPHEED are also covered by the Korea Herald, Ministry of Health of Indonesia, and Indonesian leading agency news such as Liputan6 and Republika.

The 9th ASEAN Plus Three Health Ministers Meeting was held on 15 May 2022 in Bali, Indonesia.

The Health Ministers affirming their commitment to continue “Optimising the Mobilisation of Essential Health Resources in Responding to Public Health Crisis”. The Meeting discussed and exchanged views on the preparation and response to future health challenges and agreed on some important points, one of which is to increase the utilisation of existing respective Plus Three countries’ trust funds by the ASEAN Health Sectoral Body, such as ASEAN-China Cooperation Fund (ACCF), ASEAN Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF), and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), and tapping into the identified ASEAN regional funding and resource mechanisms, such as COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund for concrete actions in COVID-19 recovery and future public health emergencies, including the expeditious FINAL 3 implementation of the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF) and its Implementation Plan.

The full statement can be downloaded here.

Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion announced that the mentorship initiative originated in the Philippines by Go Negosyo, the non-profit he founded, will be implemented across the ASEAN starting this May. He shared this landmark news as the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurship Network (AMEN) moves to its second phase following a US$333,943 grant from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) last March.

“We are grateful to the JAIF for making this possible. With AMEN moving to its second phase, our small entrepreneurs can scale up to the regional level, and we increase and expand our network of mentors. It is a great leap forward for the mentorship advocacy started by Go Negosyo,” he said.

The AMEN project was launched in 2017 and is supported by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship, which runs the Go Negosyo advocacy. It aims to institute a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) system that will help micro- and small enterprises (MSEs) access money, markets and mentorship which can help them scale up their operations and improve their profitability and sustainability.

The first phase used a 10-module mentorship program that was vetted in the public and private sectors in all 10 ASEAN member-countries. It aims to forge public-private partnerships dedicated to continually developing and mobilizing mentors dedicated to enabling ASEAN’s MSE to succeed and grow.

The second phase will employ an improved ten-module mentorship program which will be translated to the languages of the ASEAN member-countries.

More articles about AMEN project or Go Negosyo Program can also be found on Manila Times, Philstar Global, Business World and Manilla Bulletin.

This project also dedicated a Facebook page to showcase and update the activities of project.

The Golden Bowl carved with Ramayana Stories will be included in a DK Books publication entitled “Cultural Treasures” coming out in Spring 2022!

Housed at the Museum Nasional Indonesia, the Golden Bowl can be viewed digitally at the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) website.

Be the first to grab a copy of “Cultural Treasures” when it is out!

Book title: Cultural Treasures

Publisher: Dorling Kindersley (DK)

Publication date: Spring 2022

Rights: World, all languages, all editions (including digital)

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) magazine provides cyber policymakers and stakeholders insight on cyber capacity building projects, policies, and developments globally.

ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Center (AJCCBC) was featured their content in the Volume 10 of GFCE magazine and LinkedIn post to share the success and experience as a collaborative cybersecurity initiative between ASEAN and Japan.

The AJCCBC is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Effective and safe drugs are essential to maintaining and improving public health, and it is the responsibility of the world’s regulators to ensure swift access. Therefore, global harmonisation of technical regulatory requirements for drug product approvals and cooperation among regulatory authorities is essential to realise more efficient product reviews and streamlined exchange of critical safety information.

The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025 emphasises regulatory harmonisation. The Revised Implementation Plan of the Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation states that ASEAN and Japan will cooperate in drug and medical device product regulation through platforms like the Asia Training Center for Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Regulatory Affairs (PMDA-ATC) managed by Japan’s local regulator. The ASEAN Pharmaceutical Product Working Group (PPWG) is advancing harmonisation among member states by developing regional guidelines and acknowledging ICH guidelines1 by the Member States.

Corresponding training programming is crucial to help ensure the smooth application of harmonised guidelines. Accordingly, PPWG has listed the types of training most needed based on input from the Member States. The primary goal of this training is to leverage the resources and know-how of ASEAN and Japan to meet these urgent needs. ASEAN-Japan Pharmaceuticals Training in Risk Management Plan（RMP）is a collaboration program conducted by the Indonesian FDA, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA, Japan), and Universitas Indonesia (UI) with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Indonesian FDA, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA, Japan) and Universitas Indonesia (UI) collaborate to present the ASEAN-Japan Risk Management Plan (RMP) Symposium 2022 on 23 May 2022 and Seminar 2022 on 24-25 May 2022.

The ASEAN Secretariat organised the Trends and Foresight for ASEAN Disaster Management forum to discuss adaptive approaches to disaster management on 21 April.

This is the second event of a series of forums under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platform Programme which brings evidence-based research and insights to support ASEAN sectoral bodies in their activities. The programme is supported by the Japanese government through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Naoki Minamiguchi, the Director of Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Management Team, noted that the forum aims “to assist ASEAN in achieving substantial reduction of disaster losses in lives and assets and to enhance disaster resilience in the region through collaboration and cooperation in disaster management.” He emphasised the importance of actionable policy tools and innovative methodologies to be readily applied to the disaster sector.

Representatives of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management from several ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation, Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community, Committee on Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, attended the event.

The news of this event is also published on the Vietnam Plus on 4 May 2022.

After the continuation of laboratory activities and a bioinformatics session, the Regional Workshop on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants concluded on 21 April with a trek to the mudsprings at Mount Makiling Forest Reserve and a visit to the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) office for the workshop’s closing ceremony.

This activity is part of the Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics, a project supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

We have seen positive changes in cybersecurity field in the last few years whether in terms of workplace flexibility, innovative and digital transformation enthusiasm, and many more. Moreover, according to the IMD Digital Competitiveness Ranking, the investments in science education, research, robotics, and high-tech exports in Eastern Asia have reached the highest rank compared to other regions. Despite the facts stated, one of the challenges as gender disparity in technology industry still has room for improvement.

There are possible ways to alleviate the challenge, ranging from protecting their rights and making them feel safe to be part of the community, setting up a cybersecurity educational training for women to support their career path, or launching an initiative for women in the area globally.

To be part of this, since the inception in 2018, the Centre has welcomed 193 female participants to AJCCBC activities, which account for 25% of the total participant number, and we are still on a mission to encourage the participation of female cybersecurity personnel by keeping the gate to trainings wide open for everyone.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) was funded by Japan ASEAN Integration Fund with the aim to develop a cybersecurity workforce of 700+ over 4 years to enhance the capacity of cybersecurity experts and specialists in the ASEAN Member States by providing trainings and other activities to participants from the region.

3D technologies are helping museums and heritage sectors to digitalise and reach a wider audience. With the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive, one can easily virtually project the Prajnyaparamita statue in its actual size! This precious and heavy statue is available for viewing at the Museum Nasional Indonesia in Jakarta, Indonesia. This pilot demonstration was presented by AMLAD NTT DATA Japan (NTTDATA) during the NTT DATA Innovation Conference 2022: Go Beyond Digital Archive in the Age of Metaverse.

Watch the full video at https://bit.ly/BeyondACHDA to have an in-depth understanding of how the future and the past can merge through technology.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The application of DNA barcoding technology is broad—from biodiversity research to wildlife law enforcement and has the potential to support capacity development for access and benefit-sharing.

The Regional Workshop on the DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics was held on 18-22 April 2022. The workshop is designed to enhance the taxonomic capacity in the region on the standardised GTI DNA barcoding protocols developed by the University of Guelph, Canada and the traditional method of taxonomic identification of vascular plants in the tropics.

On the 2nd day of the workshop, participants experience DNA barcoding first-hand at the University of the Philippines Diliman Institute of Biology’s herbarium and laboratories.

This program is part of the project namely Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, is an international observance held on 18 April each year around the world with different types of activities.

ASEAN’s culture sector has been working to highlight the importance of heritage conservation and preservation in the region, from storage management for paintings to the performance of traditional dances, from the restoration of historic sites to digitising heritage objects.

One of the notable works in digitising heritage objects is the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) which celebrates the rich and diverse cultural heritage of ASEAN and showcases a veritable treasure trove of exemplary artefacts and history. Initiated in February 2018, ACHDA has digitalised more than 160 items from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. This ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 2-8 March 2022, the JENESYS online programme, organised by Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) and themed “JENESYS Youth Sports Exchange (Rugby)”, welcomed participation from youths hailing from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste. Over the course of the programme, several lectures were delivered that touched on, among others, physical education in Japan as well as education through sports. It is hoped that the participants enjoyed the exchanges among youths from each different country, and that the programme enriched their perspectives about sports and education.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Mr. Kodama Yoshinori, Minister and Deputy Head of Mission of Japan to ASEAN visited the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) to discuss the Government of Japan’s long-standing support towards AHA Centre’s disaster management efforts through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JAIF flagship projects implemented by the AHA Centre among others are Integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) System, Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA), Transformation of ASEAN-Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) and AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme.

The production of metal objects requires sophisticated skills, technology, and extended time. High-quality items made of metal, such as crowns, accoutrements, and bells, are historically valued as prestige objects.

This silver container from Malaysia is one of the featured heritage collections of the “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation” e-exhibition. It is used to store jewellery and other valuable items.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 4 April, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN virtually attended the reception of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, which was held in a hybrid format in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and delivered opening remarks. Ambassador Chiba underlined that in many parts of the region, landmines, and other explosive remnants of war (ERW) still pose persistent threats to the safety of local people and hinders socio-economic development. Not only the clearance of landmines and other ERW, but also mine risk education and awareness-raising are the indivisible components of mine actions to prevent unnecessary accidents, and to achieve a landmine free world.

The reception was held as part of the project called Enhance Awareness Programs on the Dangers of Mine/Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) among ASEAN Member States, which was supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

As we celebrate International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, let’s learn about the role of sports in ASEAN Community building:

1. Sports is an important tool to forge regional identity
2. Sports can challenge gender stereotypes
3. Sports have the power to demonstrate gender equality

Learn more about how ASEAN and Japan promote women and girls in sports from the Open Symposium of ASEAN-Japan Workshop on Gender Equality in Sports with Japan Sports Agency and UN Women:

Part 1: https://bit.ly/GenderEquality_Workshop_Part1

Part 2: https://bit.ly/GenderEquality_Workshop_Part2

 These activities are part of the ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Join the logo design and catchphrase contest to celebrate ASEAN-Japan 50th Anniversary of Friendship and Cooperation!

Turning 50 in 2023, ASEAN-Japan have made remarkable achievements through their “heart-to-heart” partnership.

Submit your idea before 15 June to https://bit.ly/ASEANJP50_CONTEST

More details of the contest’s requirements can be found here: https://www.asean.or.jp/en/ajc-info/20220401/

On 2-8 March 2022, Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) held the JENESYS online programme on the BUDO and Japanese traditional cultures for Bruneian youths who practice Japanese martial arts (BUDO). They also participated in the pre-programme in April and May last year. During the programme, they were exposed Sado – one of Japan’s famous traditions – and were given a lecture on Okinawa traditional BUDO.

It is hoped that this exchange programme will further develop the close and wonderful cultural relationship between the participants.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 4 April 2022, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), in collaboration with the Japan-ASEAN International Fund (JAIF) marked the 2022 International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action by acknowledging the progress ASEAN Member States, all the partners, and friends of ARMAC have made in addressing landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). As the threat of explosive ordnance remains in the ASEAN Member States, continues efforts to keep these dangers in public consciousness through consistent and regular Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) and awareness raising is a must.

Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) held an online exchange program on 28 March 2022. University students from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Philippines, and Timor Leste had an exchange with the students from Komatsu University in Japan.

The Japanese students introduced the culture about Japan’s four seasons, women’s social advancement, martial arts, peacebuilding, and so on.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Another online exchange program was held by Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) on 29 March 2022.

Eighty university students from Cambodia, Myanmar and Lao PDR met Japanese students online.

The participants from Chiba University and Okayama University introduced Japanese fashion, traditional costumes and dance, SDGs, education, traditional performing arts, agriculture, food processing, etc.

Participants asked many questions and deepened their mutual understanding of each other.

It hoped this event become the bridge between the countries.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Japan and ASEAN reaffirmed that Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) share relevant fundamental principles in the 2020 Japan-ASEAN Joint Statement, and Japan has been promoting various cooperation with ASEAN in line with AOIP.

The video clip regarding Japan’s FOIP is now available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0-1qp0u9Us

Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) organised an online event “JENESYS Photo Contest Awards ceremony & Online Alumni Event for ASEAN“ on 19 March 2022.

JENESYS Photo Contest had been held from November to December in 2021 to confirm the outcome of JENESYS program and enhance the Alumni network. JICE collected photos showing the activities relating Japan after the program participation and participants’ experiences during the program under the theme of “Reconnecting with Japan”.

In the ceremony, all photos (78 photos) submitted by JENESYS alumni from JENESYS2015 to JENESYS2019 were introduced in the video clip and winners received the awards and told how they were doing recently.

About 100 participants of the event also enjoyed the brilliant musical performance of shamisen (Japanese guitar) played by “OTOHA” of Keio University. Trusted they spent wonderful time with other alumni members and enjoyed reunion through the program and reconnected to Japan.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 22 – 28 February 2022, the JENESYS online programme was organised by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) with the theme “Japan-Brunei Traditional Arts Exchange”, which was attended by young Bruneian artists. During the programme, these artists were briefed on Japanese culture, society, and history as a first introduction. They were also exposed to Japanese traditional cultures, Noh (traditional dance-drama) and Kyogen (traditional comedy drama), through workshops by skilled Noh actors and Japanese Kyogen performers. JICE as the organiser hoped this programme inspires young Bruneian artists to push further in the performing arts and look forward to their future activities.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Toho High School from Aichi prefecture and Piriyalai School from Thailand had an online exchange on 29 March 2022. Students from Thailand who are studying Japanese participated in this program. Japanese students introduced their school, school activities, and the attractions of Nagoya. Thai students introduced Thailand, the region where they live, traditional food, tourist sites, and their school. Then, they enjoyed talking about each other’s school life and hobbies, etc. in Japanese.

It is hoped that this exchange will be an opportunity for the participants to continue to deepen their friendship and mutual understanding.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Rice is the dominant staple in ASEAN, and its production is facing increasing challenges due to climate change. For every one degree Celsius increase in temperature, up to 10% of rice yield can be lost. Rice production in the ASEAN region is especially vulnerable to more frequent and intense climate effects, including typhoons, floods, droughts, salinity, and extreme temperatures. Recently, the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT), representatives from International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Southeast Asia countries namely Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam gathered online to discuss ASEAN Rice Net best practices.

Read more here: https://bit.ly/3D8gezt

The Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Capacity Development Program for ASEAN RiceNet is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund which is currently underway.

The 16th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting took place virtually today, underscoring the commitment of both sides to further advance the ASEAN-Japan partnership towards the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan relations next year. The meeting welcomed the continued efforts in the implementation of cooperation activities and projects under the Implementation Plan of the 2013 Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Thailand to ASEAN, H.E. Urawadee Sriphiromya, and Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. Chiba Akira, and attended by members of the Committee of the Permanent Representatives to ASEAN and the Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political Security Community.

The two sides exchanged views on developments in ASEAN and Japan as well on international and regional issues. Japan reaffirmed support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). Both sides also agreed to strengthen ASEAN-Japan practical cooperation in the four areas outlined in the AOIP, in line with the ASEAN-Japan Joint Statement on Cooperation on AOIP adopted by the Leaders in 2020.

ASEAN appreciated Japan’s support to ASEAN efforts in handling challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic for the last two years, including the establishment and operations of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases Centre (ACPHEED).

A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” are supported by the Government of Japan trough Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) held Asian International Children’s Film Festival as a JENESYS2021 Japan-ASEAN-Timor-Leste Art Exchange on 8 – 18 March 2022.

The festival was held online, 14 countries and regions participated, and participants had a great cultural exchange. High school students from Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia participated in the exchange with Ueda High School in Nagano Prefecture in Japan, where they watched the films they had made and shared their impressions.

In the breakout room, participants talked about school events, after-school activities, and food recommendations from each country, making everyone wants to visit each country even more!

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS online exchange program between Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims and ECCC (Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia) and LDC (Legal Documentation Centre relating to the Extraordinary Chamber of Cambodia) was held on 17 March 2022. Mr. IWANAGA, Deputy Director of Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, explained about the facilities, archival materials about the atomic bombing, the use of testimonial materials of atomic bombing experiences, building an international peace network, etc.

Participants had a meaningful discussion and reaffirmed the preciousness of peace and the importance of passing on the tragic events of the past to the next generation.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The “Building Climate Change Data Management Capacities and Enhancing Access to Climate Finance” Forum was the first of a series of discussions from the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platform Programme.

The forums aim to bring evidence-based research and insights to support ASEAN sectoral bodies in developing and implementing their activities. The programme is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

At the forum, Naoki Minamiguchi, the Director of JAIF Management Team (JMT), noted that the Research and Development Platforms Programme funded by JAIF aims to “assist ASEAN Member States to build climate change data management capacities and to enhance access to resources needed to address climate change adaption and mitigation.”

He also emphasised the importance of actionable sets of policy tools and innovative methodologies or guidelines to measure progress around specific climate change indicators.

At the end, the forum concluded the need to address three main challenges in both building data management capacity and access to climate financing: data uniformity, connectivity, and complexity.

In the light of constant cybersecurity risks that keep posing threats to cyber space, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) has expanded its training curriculum boundary by collaborating with the Government of Switzerland in conducting “Secure Provision Training”. This collaboration is the first collaboration beyond ASEAN region and Japan.

With the support from Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan and Embassy of Switzerland in Japan, the Centre has conducted Secure Provision Training on 14th – 15th March 2022 with 22 participants. The training focused on the best practices in avoiding cybersecurity risks that are globally recognized through OWASP Top Ten. What is special about the training is that the trainees were able to investigate those threats from a different point of view “attacker perspectives”, which provided them with a fresh and exciting experience.

The training would not have ended with success without the contributions from the mentioned supporters and cybersecurity professionals as Dr. Alessandro Trivilini from The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland, who facilitated the creation of the course as well as Mr.Lino Buono and Mr.Antonio Gagliardi from Inthecyber, who guided the participants throughout the training sessions and provided them with a wonderful learning experience.

It is hoped that the participants have acquired the knowledge that will be beneficial for their respective fields of work and for the cybersecurity landscape in the region. AJJCB as the organiser will not stop attempting to expand the training boundary for cybersecurity is one of the roots to strong digital economy and society.

This activity is part of Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) project namely ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2).

Is it a statue? A religious object? Or a decorative lamp?

This is Blencong Lantern from Indonesia, a heritage object made of bronze. Blencong is a coconut oil-fueled lighting device used for the Wayang Kulit performance. The Garuda shape implies the strong influence of Hindu mythology in the 18th-century Javanese community.

This heritage collection from Museum Wayang Jakarta, Indonesia is part of the digitised cultural heritage items on the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) website.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

At a G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting held in the UK in December 2021, foreign ministers from Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Member States were invited for the first time, demonstrating hopes for the role ASEAN will play in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

This February, the US Biden administration announced its Indo-Pacific Strategy, which mentioned deepening cooperation with ASEAN as well as clearly stating that the US will intensify its focus in the Indo-Pacific. How should Japan, which has been a world leader in relations with ASEAN and will mark the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan friendship and cooperation in 2023, develop its relationship with ASEAN for peace and prosperity in the region?

The Foreign Press Center Japan (FPCJ) invited Dr. Mie Oba, a professor at Kanagawa University and an expert on Asian international politics, to discuss this topic. She also touched upon the main efforts of Japan-ASEAN Cooperation under the COVID-19 pandemic, one of which is the support for the Establishment of ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) utilising the fund donated by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) in May 2020.

The Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) held JENESYS all online program for youths from ASEAN and Timor-Leste from 2-8 March 2022. This program aimed to promote people-to-people exchange through sports, especially rugby football. JICE cooperated with Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) to implement this program. More than 55 young people of university/graduate students and working adults were joined and divided into 9 groups with various nationalities mixed.

On Day 1, Mr. MUKOYAMA Masatoshi, Associate Professor at Ryutsu Keizai University and also the Head of International Cooperation Division of Rugby Development Committee at JRFU, gave a lecture on educational values of rugby football

On Day 2, besides group activities, Ms. NOGUCHI Aya (a member of International Cooperation Division of Rugby Development Committee at JRFU) and Ms. INOUE Yuiko, co-directors of S.C.P. Japan (Sport for Creating Pathways Japan) gave the participants lectures on gender and safeguarding in sports.

On Day 3, Mr. MANABE Hiroshi and Mr. NAKAYAMA Atsushi (Ace) from CANYCOM introduced Tambo Rugby (rugby on paddy fields). In addition, Dr. OZEKI Nobutake of Tokyo Medical and Dental University talked about reducing sports disorders in growing athletes.

On Day 4, all 9 groups of participants gave presentations about what they learned during the program and Mr. NAGATA Tamekuro, Senior Manager of Rugby Development Division at JRFU, gave comments on their presentations.

JICE as the organiser thanked JRFU and those who helped implementing the program, as well as all participants. Participants’ effort to actively participate in the program amid the situation under the COVID-19 pandemic was really appreciated.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The spirit of International Women’s Day should be kept alive all year round! ASEAN invited to celebrate, break the bias and support ASEAN women athletes to score further and lead farther in the industry.

Watch and get inspired from the ASEAN #WeScore Talk Show: https://bit.ly/ASEAN_WESCORE_HL

ASEAN #WeScore Campaign is part of the ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN reiterate to keep the spirit of International Women’s Day alive by continuing to work together in promoting, improving women’s rights and gender equality. As HRH. Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah said at the ASEAN #WeScore Campaign last December: “Be persistent!”

ASEAN #WeScore Campaign is part of the ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Introducing e-exhibition, one of the functions of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project. E-exhibition is an online exhibition where curators who are familiar with the history and culture of ASEAN countries select and introduce themes from the contents published on ACHDA website.

In the first e-exhibition, 22 cultural heritage sites will be exhibited and introduced with the cooperation of ASEAN member countries under the theme of “Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation”.

What is ACHDA?

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive is a digital archive that allows you to centrally manage and browse the cultural heritage owned by each ASEAN country.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On Friday, 25 February 2022, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) has completed conducting another training, which is Training 19, revolving around Incident Response and Digital Forensics after the training’s inception on 21 February 2022.

The training was productively and ecstatically participated by 25 personnel from ASEAN Member States’ government and critical information infrastructure (CII) sectors. They were provided with the knowledge on how to cope with rapidly evolving cyberthreats in a more effective fashion.

It is the Centre’s privilege for having yet another chance to be part of building a robust fundamental for the future of cybersecurity landscape. AJCCBC expressed their gratitude to Japan, ASEAN, the participants, and the instructor team for making the trainings possible and successful.

This activity is part of Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) project namely ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) which is currently underway

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) announced that the online training titled “Exercise for SOC Analysts” has just started. The training will last from 7-11 February 2022.

This extra hands-on training program from AJCCBC is a training where the participants will be provided with comprehensive knowledge and necessary skills to become an expert in analysing security incidents, a critical role in the Security Operation Center (SOC).

The training will cover three essential skills for SOC analysts including (1) knowledge of cyberattack methods, (2) knowledge of security products to detect and prevent cyberattacks, and (3) knowledge to analyse detected attacks.

This activity is part of Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) project namely ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2).

The JENESYS online program for participants of Viet Nam was held on 4 March 2022. Mr. YOSHINAGA Shohei from Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan gave an informative lecture on Initiatives in the energy, digital, and infrastructure fields in the Indo-Pacific Region.

It is hoped this program has helped to deepen the participants’ understanding of the importance of Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) as well as ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) after the participants watched a lecture video on the AOIP by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) under the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has participated in To be RansomAware: UNODC Campaign Landing Event on 4 March 2022 at Alliance Française Bangkok, in pursuit of collaboration opportunity with organizations within ASEAN region and in quest of promoting the Centre through exhibition booth, presenting the Centre’s overview and missions.

The event aims to promote ransomware awareness and how to prevent ransomware threats among region’s organisation leaders and general public. In addition, at the AJCCBC booth, the attendees can fill out a questionnaire to connect with the Centre for future activity update and to receive souvenirs.

ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) was established with the support of the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

After a series of field visits, the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) team is currently preparing a field guidebook on common vascular plants along the mud spring trail of the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve (MMFR).

MMFR located in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines, is one of the 50 declared ASEAN Heritage Parks.

This activity is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as part of the Taxonomic Capacity Building on DNA Barcoding of Common Vascular Plants in the Tropics Project, which aims to enhance the capacity of Member States in using the DNA-based approach in species identification and discovery.

On 25 – 27 and 31 January 2022, Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) organised a JENESYS online seminar on the Japanese vehicle inspection system. From Brunei Darussalam, officials from the Land Transport Department, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, attended the virtual meetings. It is hoped that sharing the Japanese experience will contribute to Brunei Darussalam’s effort in ensuring safety of vehicles on the roads.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Having the opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences with professionals in various areas of disaster management from the ten ASEAN countries is one of the precious lessons that Sheedy bin Sies will always remember from the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme. Sheedy is Staff Officer for Operations Resources in the Logistics Department of the Singapore Civil Defense Force (SCDF) who took part in the Batch 7 of ACE Programme. “The ACE Programme participants have made me realise that our dedicated pool of disaster-management practitioners is the best asset that we have in building a disaster-ready and disaster-resilient ASEAN”, he claimed.

Read more stories from Sheedy on how he enjoyed the learning process during the programme at https://thecolumn.ahacentre.org/posts/aha-centre-diary-1/vol-79-m-sheedy-bin-sies/

The programme is part of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Belt Buckle in the Malaysian National Museum is a pure gold belt buckle. This buckle is also featured in the first online exhibition (e-exhibition) within ACHDA, so now it is possible to appreciate the design of the lotus flower and the colorful jewels scattered from various angles using the 3D viewer.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) is a digital archive that allows you to centrally manage and browse the cultural heritage owned by each ASEAN country.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Be amazed by the newest addition of digitised items contributed by the National Museum of Myanmar (Yangon) to the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA).

Among the highlights of Myanmar’s captivating collection are dazzling gold manuscripts, an ancient Buddhist sculpture, a majestic royal throne, and a betel box decorated with precious gems such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the ASEAN-Japan Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) announced that its online training titled “Exercise for Security Operation Center (SOC) Analysts” will be held from 7-11 February 2022. This extra hands-on training program from AJCCBC is a training where the participants will be provided with comprehensive knowledge and necessary skills to become an expert in analyzing security incidents, a critical role in the SOC.

The training will cover three essential skills for SOC analysts including (1) knowledge of cyberattack methods, (2) knowledge of security products to detect and prevent cyberattacks, and (3) knowledge to analyse detected attacks.

AJCCBC as the organizer hoped the participants are as thrilled and as enthusiastic as their team.

This activity is part of Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) supported-project namely ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) which is currently underway.

In ASEAN countries, gold is historically reserved only for special purposes such as for spiritual practices. Deemed as a luxury material, gold is used in religious objects to highlight their significance and distinguish them from the profane.

Find out more about the application of gold leaf in many historical objects in the Golden Tales section of the “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation” in the e-exhibition on the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Archive (ACHDA) website.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA)- Phase 2 project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) conducted the JENESYS Online Exchange Program for Thai Participants from 25-31 January 2022.

The participants took part in the lecture “Attraction of Japan” by Prof. Yuichi Oda on the 1st day and they learned the geography, demography, and culture of Japan compared with those of Thailand.

On the 2nd day, they enjoyed the virtual tour in Osu, Nagoya City. Many of them showed their interests in anime, food, and so on.

On the 3rd day, half of the participants joined the virtual tour in Hakodate, Hokkaido, and enjoyed watching the scenery and visiting souvenir stores. Another half watched the lecture about Nagoya City by Mr. Rioya Wakayama, and they learned about its feature and nine touristic sites.

On the 4th day, the participants discussed in their own groups about the presentation they were going to give on the final day.

The 5th day was the last day of this program and 10 groups had presentations about their Action Plans.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Socio Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint 2016-2025 is a statement of commitment and a guideline for ASEAN in building a community that engages and benefits ASEAN’s peoples; one that is inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and dynamic.

2020 was a pivotal year and the halfway mark of the Blueprint. ASCC Monitoring Division (AMD), through the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), conducted the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the implementation of ASCC Blueprint 2025 and a series of capacity building activities on the development of monitoring and evaluation system of the ASCC Sectoral Bodies work programmes in the ASEAN Member States. Both projects generated lessons learned for ASCC to keep the Blueprint relevant for Member States and the people of ASEAN. Over 320 participants from 15 ASCC Sectoral Bodies and the Senior Official committee of the ASCC (SOCA) across the ASEAN Member States participated in these training events. Post-evaluation surveys and tests revealed that the online training had successfully increased the knowledge score of participants from 44.3 per cent (pre-test) to 68 per cent (post-test).

Read the full article in p.52 – 53 of The ASEAN Double Issue December 2021 – January 2022.

Climate change remains one of the most challenging environmental issues of our generation and is an ongoing threat to global security. Its adverse impacts are manifested across communities around the world including in the Southeast Asian region.

Aiming to put this climate crisis to an end, world leaders gathered at the 26th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP26) from 31 October to 12 November 2021 in Glasgow, the United Kingdom. The UNFCCC COPs have served as a pivotal platform for countries to deliberate about transformational changes in global climate policy and action. ASEAN Member States certainly did not miss this pivotal momentum. All ASEAN Member States have committed to substantially reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the coming years as reflected in the official submission of their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to the UNFCCC.

In line with the Paris Agreement that encourages all Parties to formulate and communicate long-term low GHG emission development strategies, ASEAN has been paving the way to build preparedness and capacity towards this long-term vision. The ASEAN State of Climate Change Report was recently launched to provide an overall outlook on the state of play of climate change in Southeast Asia and identify priority actions by 2030.

Read the full article in p.43 – 44 of The ASEAN Double Issue December 2021 – January 2022.

The Development of the Report on the State of Climate Change in ASEAN Region is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) is a digital archive that centrally manages and publishes the cultural heritage of each ASEAN country.

For the first time in AMLAD , it also archives 3D data such as stone statues. AMLAD® is a global digital archiving solution by NTT DATA, the implementing agency of ACHDA.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

It’s been a great experience for Nova Eloiza Ybañez, the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme Batch 7 participant from the Philippines, to learn and understand more the vision of One ASEAN One Response through the programme. She also believes that the programme will help her in developing her career as a disaster-management professional.

Read more stories from Nova at https://thecolumn.ahacentre.org/posts/aha-centre-diary-1/vol-78-nova-eloiza/

The programme is part of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Guidelines on Promoting Responsible Investment in Food, Agriculture and Forestry (ASEAN RAI) network is continuously developing tools and partnerships to support the adoption of more responsible investment practices in their sector and region.

In this quarter’s ASEAN RAI newsletter, they highlight some of the progress, including:

• The publication of the first three ASEAN RAI case studies;
• New donor support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office;
• Launch of Communities of Practice for the private sector and governments; and
• Upcoming webinars on carbon and the ASEAN RAI case study series

Read this quarter’s newsletter here: lnkd.in/gefGAJ9f

To learn more about the ASEAN RAI, visit www.aseanraiguidelines.org

The Government of Japan supports the ASEAN RAI through the JAIF project Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Programme to Implement ASEAN-RAI Guidelines

The application for four-day online exchange program is now open. This program which will be held on 16 – 22 February 2022 is targeted for undergraduate students in Cambodia. With the theme “Exploring the Attractions of Japan”, this program aims to encourage an understanding of Japan’s economics, society, history, diverse culture, politics, and diplomatic relations and to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan and the Asia-Pacific region and building a basis for future friendship and cooperation.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Siti Nur Afiqah from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) of Malaysia really enjoyed taking a Post Disaster Need Assessment (PDNA) course provided in the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme Batch 7. Her impression about the programme in overall was enjoyable and safe learning environment. The programme also allowed the participants to express their opinions and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment.

Read more stories from Afiqah and her experience involving in ACE Programme Batch 7 at https://thecolumn.ahacentre.org/the-column-vol-77/

The programme is part of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The application for five-day online exchange program for Undergraduate students in Cambodia is now open. The program objectives are to encourage an understanding of Japan’s economics, society, history, diverse culture, politics, and diplomatic relations (especially of the program theme: Environment), to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan and the Asia-Pacific region and building a basis for future friendship and cooperation. The program which content virtual tour, school exchange, etc. will be run on 16 – 22 February 2022.

Interested applicants may register by 2 February 2022 through this link: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1785

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The application for five-day online exchange program is now open. This program is targeted for technical school students, undergraduate students, graduate students or working adults of Lao PDR and will be held on 16 – 22 February 2022 which cover home visit, virtual tour, etc.

The program objectives are to encourage an understanding of Japan’s economics, society, history, diverse culture, politics and diplomatic relations, and to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan and the Asia-Pacific region and building a basis for future friendship and cooperation.

Interested participants are invited to register by 2 February 2022 through this link: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/2080

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Communities, severely affected by Typhoon Rai (Odette), in Brgy. Oslao, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte, the Philippines received the ASEAN relief items, comprised of shelter repair kits and family tents. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) – Office of Civil Defense (OCD) of the Philippines has continued the distribution of the relief items supported by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and Direct Relief, to the typhoon-affected communities in the country.

ASEAN and Japan have strengthened their partnership towards peace, stability, as well as development and prosperity in the region for over 40 years. In 2006, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund was established to promote greater cooperation between the two.

This video showcases JAIF’s wide-ranging projects with voices from various fields: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut1zP2LBfyg

The first ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) online training session of this year has come to an end. On 10 – 14 January 2022, AJCCBC, with the support of the Government of Japan and ASEAN, held the 18th AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training, which is the 8th time in the online format, revolving around Incident Response and Malware Analysis.

Despite the epidemic disrupting the on-site trainings, 24 cybersecurity personnel from the public and critical information infrastructure (CII) sectors of ASEAN Member States have gained insights on how to secure their organizations and countries.

With the support from Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) through the project ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) which is currently underway, AJCCBC would be delighted to continue serving the cyber society in ASEAN by providing the technical training and other related activities with the great vigor in 2022 and in the coming years.

The JENESYS online program for the participants of Viet Nam was held on 18 January 2022. Mr. TAMAMURA Wataru and Mr. TAMASHIRO Yuichi from Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture gave an informative lecture on agricultural land and irrigation maintenance, improving and branding productivity of carrot, a specialty product, and current issues. In the Q&A session, the participants exchanged opinions with the lecturers. It is hoped that the participants will come to Japan in the near future.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Noor Hamzah Rosli or known as Azy had no idea what AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme was when she was told to join the programme. She was told it was a good opportunity for her to learn about leadership in disaster management in ASEAN countries.

Now, Azy becomes one of the ACE Programme Batch 7 participants together with other national disaster management officers from the ASEAN Member States. For her, who works as a paramedic in the Emergency Medical Ambulance Services, the Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam, ACE Programme provides her knowledge and understanding into becoming an effective future leader.

Read more story about Azy and her experience as an ACE Programme participant at https://thecolumn.ahacentre.org/the-column-vol-77/

To be able to increase the artefact collections in the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) in 2022 and to improve the ACHDA website, the members of the ACHDA Project Steering Committee (PSC) met on 14 January 2022 for its 2nd PSC Meeting.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA)- Phase 2 project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The application for five-day JENESYS Online Exchange Program is now open for university students (graduate and undergraduate) from Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines.

The program objectives are to encourage an understanding of Japan’s economics, society, history, diverse culture, politics, and diplomatic relations and to promote mutual trust and understanding among the peoples of Japan and the Asia-Pacific region and building a basis for future friendship and cooperation. This program will be held on 16 – 22 February 2022.

Interested participants can register through the link for respective countries by 2 February 2022 (18:00 GMT+9):

Singapore : https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1850

Brunei : https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1816

Philippines : https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1849

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 16 December 2021, Typhoon Rai (known as Odette in the Philippines) made landfall on Siargao Island in southeastern Philippines, leaving a devastating trail of debris and human casualties in its wake. More than 3 million persons were affected by the disaster, resulting in the over 250 deaths while another 568 persons were injured and 47 reported missing.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) immediately responded to the crisis by mobilising ASEAN relief items stockpiled at the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Satellite Warehouse in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the Philippines. This mobilisation aimed to augment the government’s ongoing efforts to help people affected by Typhoon Rai (Odette) in the Philippines.

A total of 541 shelter repair kits, 275 family tents, 5,000 family kits, 1,000 rolls of tarpaulin, 5,000 personal hygiene kits, and 1,000 kitchen sets were delivered with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and Direct Relief.

No plans yet for the weekend? Why not spend some time exploring the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) e-exhibitions, the newest feature of the ACHDA website.

Learn more about the role of gold and other metals in ASEAN’s history through the 1st virtual exhibition “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation” and discover the fascinating stories behind the digitised collections of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN relief items, supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and Direct Relief were mobilised from the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Satellite Warehouse in Camp Aguinaldo, Philippines, in response to the Typhoon Rai (Odette), which made landfall on 16 December 2021.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) distributed the items that were comprised of shelter repair kits, family tents, family kits, tarpaulins, personal hygiene kits, and kitchen sets and will be distributed to the region severely affected by the typhoon. The AHA Centre is closely monitoring the situation and in close communication with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Office of Civil Defense of the Philippines as well as stands ready to provide necessary support.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) has mobilised the ASEAN relief items stockpiled at the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Satellite Warehouse in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the Philippines to augment the government’s ongoing efforts to help people affected by Typhoon Rai (Odette) in the Philippines, which made its landfall on 16 December 2021.

Mr. Lee Yam Ming, the Executive Director of the AHA Centre, mentioned that the mobilisation of ASEAN relief items,represents tangible ASEAN’s solidarity in the spirit of ‘One ASEAN, One Response’. “The AHA Centre has been monitoring the disaster situation in the Philippines since the last two weeks when several weather disturbances were first identified”, he said. The Centre activated the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) when received and gather information about the potential impacts caused by the weather disturbance.

The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) hosted ten-days JENESYS Online Exchange Programme from 17 December 2021 until 13 January 2021. Engaging youth from the ASEAN countries, Timor-Leste and Japan, the programme covers the theme “Research for the Synergy of Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). The participants are divided into ten groups and created their social media pages to share the knowledge and fun they are having during the programme.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Judo club students from Tamanokonan High School (Okayama Prefecture) and high school and undergraduate students who belong to judo clubs in Lao PDR had an online exchange on 18 December 2021. The students from Tamanokonan High School demonstrated practical skills and various throwing techniques. The participants enjoyed sharing their judo experiences, favorite techniques, and regular practices. It is hoped that the Lao participants will come to Japan in the future and practice Judo with their Japanese counterparts.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Hokusei Gakuen University (Hokkaido) and undergraduate students from Cambodia had an online exchange on 18 December 2021. Students from Hokusei Gakuen University performed a wonderful Yosakoi dance for the Cambodian participants. They also introduced the origin of Yosakoi, Japanese culture, winter life in Hokkaido, and so on. The participants had fun conversing in small groups about how they spent their Christmas and New Year’s holidays, each other’s culture, and student life.

This online exchange programme is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with Lao PDR’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and supported by the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), concluded its second cycle of training on Project Proposal Writing for Lao PDR officials.

Hosted by the Laos-Singapore Cooperation Centre in Vientiane, the training took place online from 6-17 December 2021 with the attendance of 21 Lao PDR officials from six ministries, two provinces and the Bank of the Lao PDR.

The Republic Polytechnic of Singapore facilitated the first half of the training from December 6 to 10. Meanwhile ASEC, through its Programme Cooperation and Project Management Division, facilitated the second half from December 13 to 17, particularly to train Lao PDR’s future project proponents on the development and management of ASEAN cooperation projects (ACPs), as well as the mechanism to tap into available resources.

ASEC invited the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Management Team to share their experience in project proposal development and monitoring and evaluation, from an ASEAN partner’s perspective. Meanwhile, ASEC’s Finance and Budget Division shared project budget formulation and project fund disbursements, as well as reporting.

JENESYS online program “Japan-Brunei Martial Arts Exchange” was held on 17 December 2021. 13 Japanese high school students who practice Karate learned about the Brunei Darussalam and the Karate in the country. The Japanese Embassy in Brunei introduced Brunei Darussalam as a country, followed by lecture on Karate in Brunei from Brunei Darussalam Karate Federation (BRUKAF). Participants joined the programme enthusiastically as they raised many questions on the subject.

This webinar is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

Hokkaido Sapporo Intercultural and Technological High School and Wittayanukulnaree School from Thailand had an online exchange on 17 December 2021. Students from Thailand who are studying Japanese participated in this program that was conducted mainly in Japanese. Students from Wittayanukulnaree School introduced Thai food, events in Thailand, the region where they live, famous sightseeing spots, festivals, and their school. Students from Hokkaido Sapporo Intercultural and Technological High School introduced Japanese culture, festivals, fashion, and views on love during the group session. They enjoyed talking about their favorite anime, music, and so on. The exchange served as an opportunity for the participants to deepen their friendship and mutual understanding.

This webinar is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

On 26 November 2021, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, attended the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) webinar(*) and delivered opening remarks. The webinar was attended by H.E. Ekkaphab Phantavong, Deputy Secretary General for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Chiba stressed that digitisation of cultural heritages is of great significance as a measure to preserve cultural heritages from potential loss by disasters, such as earthquakes, fires and floods, and that also it enables people to appreciate them online despite the temporary close of museums, libraries and galleries upon the COVID-19 pandemic. He also expressed his pleasure that advanced Japanese technology has been used as well as his hope that people all over the world would be interested in ASEAN culture.

(*) The objective of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) is to support the digitisation of cultural heritages and build of common platform of ASEAN 10 countries with Japanese technology. The Government of Japan supports the programme through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 13-17 December 2021, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) has conducted the 17th Online AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training revolving around Incident Response and Network Forensics with 24 participants from ASEAN Member States (AMS) attending the training. The training was objectively established to enhance cybersecurity personnel’s ability to suppress cyber threats, which has also been improving. It was conducted within a five-day period: the first 2.5 days focused on Incident Response/ CYDER and the remaining 2.5 days on Network Forensics.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to enhance the skills of cybersecurity professionals in ASEAN.

JENESYS Webinar for Japanese university students was held on 14 December 2021. Ms. TAKUSHIMA Yoko, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in Myanmar, delivered an informative lecture on the general situation of Myanmar and its relations with Japan. She also explained the current situation in Myanmar and the daily work at the embassy. In the Q&A session, participants asked questions to the lecturer about future prospects, current issues, et cetera.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Students from two high schools in Papua, Indonesia and students of Nagoya University Affiliated High School in Japan had an online exchange on 13 December 2021. Japanese students introduced Japan’s history, culture, and their school. Then, students from Papua, Indonesia take their turn to present about their school. Unfortunately due to the connection trouble, it was challenging to communicate smoothly in the breakout room session, but students from Papua sang 2 Japanese songs and performed Papuan traditional war dance.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online program for undergraduate students, graduate students, and working adult in Lao PDR was held on 11 December 2021. Mr. Masaru Yajima, President, Eagle Bus. Co., Ltd. delivered an informative lecture on the structure of bus operations in Japan, problems facing the industry, new initiatives, and so on. In Q&A session, the participants exchanged opinions with the lecturer. The organiser hoped that the participants will come to Japan in the future and have experience in taking Japanese buses.

This webinar is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

On 3 December 2021, the ASEAN Secretariat hosted ASEAN Talk Show on Women in Sports engaging ten women sports ambassadors.

Below are the three key takeaways from the discussion:
– Perseverance, confidence, and a good support system are essential.
– Media coverage and enabling ecosystem boost women athlete’s accomplishment and leadership.
– Equal attention to the para-athlete is crucial.

The talk show is part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports which is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

A recorded version of the talk show is available on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpITAUACQmU

Highlights of the talk show are also available here and here.

On 26 November 2021, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, attended the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre)’s 10th Anniversary Partnership Forum and has sent the video message to the AHA Centre.  The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dato Lim Jock Hoi,Secretary-General of ASEAN, Commissioner Eric Yap Wee Teck, Chair of the Governing Board of the AHA Center, Mr. Lee Yam Ming, Executive Director of the AHA Centre, Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, and Ambassadors of ASEAN dialogue partners.

In his Video Message, Ambassador Chiba mentioned that Japan has supported the AHA Centre through the Japan-ASEAN Integration fund (JAIF) since its establishment and Japan consistently continues its strong support for the Centre with the AHA Centre’s Disaster Emergency Logistics System of ASEAN (DELSA), the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme and ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ERAT) programme.  In addition to that, Ambassador Chiba announced that Japan and ASEAN will commemorate the 50th anniversary of friendship and cooperation in 2023 and Japan is determined to further promote cooperation with ASEAN in a wide range of fields, including disaster management.

The ASEAN Secretariat successfully held a hybrid event in Jakarta with ten selected ASEAN Women’s Sports Ambassadors participating virtually. Director Tomohiko Arai (International Affairs Division Japan Sports Agency SOMS Leader) delivered his opening remarks “Under the cooperation between ASEAN and Japan, women in sports have emerged as one of the main areas of sports cooperation.”

The event was closed with closing remarks by the Deputy Secretary-General for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community, Ekkaphab Phanthavong. He highlighted the legacy of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics “as the most gender-balanced game since its inception,” Phanthavong later added, “Learning from our discussions with ambassadors and sports experts, we all need to think beyond the achievements of women and girls in activities and competitions. We have to start paying attention to the leadership and career paths of women in sports institutions, as well as their safety and protection.”

The #WeScore Campaign is part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports which is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

A recorded version of the talk show is available on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpITAUACQmU

See also related articles on Borneo Bulletin: https://borneobulletin.com.bn/women-encouraged-to-follow-passion-in-sports/

 The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) celebrated its 10th Anniversary with a Partnership Forum themed “A Decade of Action: From Inception to Transformation” on 26 November 2021. A virtual exhibit entitled “AHA Centre Work Plan 2025 Exhibition” was held where participants had the choice to join six different breakout sessions.

Since its establishment, the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund has been supporting the AHA Centre through the following initiatives:

• ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Project – Phase I
• The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse and Phase III
• AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020
• Strengthening ASEAN’s Collective Response Capacity through the Enhancement of the Capacity Building of the Regional ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) (2020 – 2022)
• Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) System to Strengthen the Operation of the AHA Centre

Remarks from H.E. Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary-General of ASEAN can be accessed here while greetings from Dialogue and Development Partners, including H.E. Chiba Akira, the Ambassador for Mission of Japan to ASEAN is available here.

The inaugural e-exhibition of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) website was unveiled today at the Webinar and Launch of “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation.”

The ASEAN region has a population of more than 650 million, with diverse ethnic groups, religions, races, and cultures. Under its motto of “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”, ASEAN pursues cultural projects to foster a sense of integration and promote greater unity. As part of this effort, the ASEAN Secretariat is integrating the cultural communications of the ASEAN region, which had previously been conducted on an individual country basis, and in 2018 began the ACHDA project to promote cultural exchange within the ASEAN region and ensure that cultural assets of high historical value are passed down to future generations, as well as provide an opportunity for people outside the ASEAN region to experience this heritage. NTT DATA, a global digital business and IT services leader has developed the historical cultural heritage digital archive system for this project.

The ACHDA project is supported by the government of Japan through the ASEAN-Japan Integration Fund (JAIF). Ambassador Akira Chiba of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, stated, “It is my honor and pleasure to see that advanced Japanese digitization technology by NTT DATA came into use, and that JAIF, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund plays an indispensable role in launching this project.”

Building on the legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games, ASEAN appointed ten prominent athletes and sports officials as ASEAN Women in Sports Ambassadors. The ambassadors will use their influence to promote gender equality and women empowerment through sports, across the region and spread encouraging messages to the ASEAN Community through #WeScore Campaign. Through talk show that were conducted on 3 December 2021, the ambassadors touched on issues such as gender equality and women’s leadership, safeguarding of women and girls in sports, promoting the rights of persons with disabilities through sports, as well as the impacts of COVID-19 on sports and how to address it.

ASEAN #WeScore campaign forms part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports, a project under the ASEAN Plus Japan Senior Officials Meeting on Sports (SOMS+Japan) funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund. Prior to the talk show, the ASEAN Secretariat held a Tribute to Tokyo 2020 ASEAN Olympic and Paralympic Medallists.

A recorded version of the talk show is available on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpITAUACQmU

This news is also broadcasted on numerous media including Thailand Business News, Thailand’s ASEAN Information Center, Vietnam Plus, and Worldakkam.

The JENESYS Online Program on Social Welfare was held on 30 November 2021. Mr. Wakayama, professor of Nihon Fukushi University introduced Japan’s long-term care. Following the lecture, panel discussion with Japanese and Filipino caregivers who work in long-term care facility in Japan was taken place. They introduced their work, daily schedule in the facility, and their motivation to do the job. Participants showed great interest as they asked many questions regarding the caregivers’ job in Japan.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 24 November 2021, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, visited the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (AIPR) Secretariat in Jakarta. The Meeting discussed priority areas, specifically on Women, Peace and Security and reconciliation

Japan has been supporting ASEAN-IPR’s initiatives and activities since 2015’s “ASEAN Workshop on Strengthening Women’s Participation in Peace Processes”. The latest ASEAN-IPR project supported by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) is a research project studying the best practices on Aceh’s peace process.

 The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) hosted Leaders Talk session with Ms. Liz Hughes, Chief Executive Officer of Map Action. The session discussed about Developing the Future Leaders in ASEAN in Disaster Management.

This event is part of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 which is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The recorded version of the event is available on the AHA Centre’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3_bJQVJ-nI

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) has been implementing the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme as an effort to prepare future leaders of disaster management in ASEAN to further visualise the value of One ASEAN One Response. Currently, 21 participants from 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) are engaged in the ACE Programme Batch 7. The seven-months of blended-mode learning programme consists of 29 courses that will home the four Professional Qualities of the participants: Humanitarian Expert, Collaboration Builder, Result Oriented, and Effective Leadership. The Programme is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Ministry of Digital Economy and Society with the ASEAN-Japan Cooperation Center developed ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) with the funding from Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).  AJCCBC organised the Cyber ​​SEA Game 2021 competition, which brings together the best people in the field of cybersecurity.

Young cybersecurity people from 10 countries in the ASEAN region came to compete on 26 November 2021. Due to the epidemic situation of COVID-19, the activity was still conducted in online format. Despite organised in online format, the quality and fun of the competition remain. The contestants, who are young people from 10 ASEAN nations, totaling 40 people, were welcomed by Atsushi Umino, Director of the Office of the Director-General for Cybersecurity, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan and Dr. Chaichan Mitrphan, Director of ETDA, who pledged to continually organise activities to enhance cybersecurity skills.

Watch the summary of Cyber SEA Game 2021 here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weSIkV6zWHo

The JENESYS online webinar for undergraduate students, graduate students, and working adults in Vietnam was held on 27 November 2021. Ms. ANDRADE Hisami delivered an instructive lecture on Japanese climate, society, custom, culture, religion, pop culture, food, and so on. The participants showed great interest on the presentation that will be helpful when they visit Japan in the future.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

 The inaugural e-exhibition of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) website was unveiled today at the Webinar and Launch of “Forging History: Metals in the Crucible of ASEAN’s Transformation.” It features 22 digitised cultural heritage treasures selected by guest curator Girard Phillip E. Bonotan with support from museums and archival institutions of the ASEAN Member States. During the panel discussion titled “Reimagining Exhibitions during COVID-19”, experts from cultural institutions in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Japan discussed their experiences in reinventing the museum experience in light of the ongoing pandemic.

“While the COVID-19 Pandemic has deeply affected ASEAN’s cultural institutions, it provides impetus for museums to re-imagine their outreach to audiences through immersive digital cultural offerings,” said Deputy-Secretary General for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Ekkaphab Phantavong at the opening of the webinar. The ACHDA project is supported by the government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Ambassador Akira Chiba of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, stated, “It is my honor and pleasure to see that advanced Japanese digitisation technology by NTT DATA came into use, and that JAIF, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund plays an indispensable role in launching this project.”

See also the news article covering this launching event from NTT Data.

The Launching Event is also broadcasted on numerous media including Tempo, Thailand Business News, Vietnam Plus, and Worldakkam.

Tottori Keiai High School and Phiriyalai School Phrae from Thailand had an online exchange on 26 November 2021. Students from Thailand who are studying Japanese participated in this program which was conducted in Japanese. Japanese students introduced about their school, school activities, and the attractions of Tottori such as local food, wonderful nature and culture. Thai students introduced Thailand, the region where they live, sightseeing spots, traditional cuisine, and their school. The participants had fun sharing about their school life and hobbies. This exchange provided an opportunity for the participants to continue to deepen their friendship and mutual understanding.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”  supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN region has a population of more than 650 million, with diverse ethnic groups, religions, races, and cultures. Under its motto of “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”, ASEAN pursues cultural projects to foster a sense of integration and promote greater unity. As part of this effort, the ASEAN Secretariat is integrating the cultural communications of the ASEAN region, which had previously been conducted on an individual country basis, and in 2018 began the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project to promote cultural exchange within the ASEAN region and ensure that cultural assets of high historical value are passed down to future generations, as well as provide an opportunity for people outside the ASEAN region to experience this heritage.

The ACHDA website made publicly available from 27 February 2020, for anyone in the world to view online at the ACHDA website. This system supports the images, audio recordings, and video data that are available on other NTT DATA digital archive systems, as well as an expanded capability to handle three-dimensional models of physical objects. The e-exhibition is a new feature of the ACHDA website, developed during the project’s second phase that commenced in January 2021.

The ACHDA project is supported by the government of Japan through the ASEAN-Japan Integration Fund (JAIF). Ambassador Akira Chiba of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, stated, “It is my honor and pleasure to see that advanced Japanese digitization technology by NTT DATA came into use, and that JAIF, the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund plays an indispensable role in launching this project.”

The ASEAN Secretariat and NTT DATA plan to further contribute to ASEAN by digitizing cultural heritage assets and building a sustainable digital archive system in all 10 ASEAN countries.

More e-exhibitions will be added as the collection of digital heritage treasures on the ACHDA website expands.

Gender-based discrimination and stereotypes are still common in sports. The ASEAN Secretariat is inviting the public to participate in the “ASEAN We Score” campaign to dismantle this issue. As part of this initiative, it will hold a talk show with sport ambassadors on Friday, 3 December 20210 at 15.00-17.00 (GMT+7).

The talk show will engage Olympians, Paralympians and sports professionals to discuss about women’s and girls’ achievements and leadership in a male-dominated field such as:

1. Sokha Pov, World Vovinam Championship gold medalist from Cambodia.
2. Leani Ratri Oktila from Indonesia, gold medalist for para-badminton in the women’s doubles SL3–SU5 at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
3. Tuyet Van Chau from Viet Nam, consecutive gold medalist for Taekwondo at the SEA Games.

It will be aired on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpITAUACQmU

This event is part of the ASEAN-JAPAN Actions on Sports supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online event will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Lao PDR to build for future friendship and cooperation. This program will discuss about buses, which play an important role in public transportation. The participants will be able to learn about the structure of bus operations in Japan including issues and new initiatives. The webinar will take place on Saturday, 11 December 2021 at 2.00 – 3.30 PM (Lao PDR time).

Interest participants are invited to register by 5 December 2021 through this link: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1321?fbclid=IwAR1lvVNY9PEzQ_vFVUoofTA4J2YTx8ounLqJnU_DMYQP_UoATMDkuwIpguA

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Archives, memories and world documentary heritage became the main topics on the first day’s discussion of the Southeast Asian Branch of International Council on Archives (SARBICA) International Seminar 2021.

In this webinar, Gladys Respatih, Project Officer of the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archives (ACHDA), revealed that the digitisation process of cultural wealth was carried out to support public promotion of the existence of local culture that has the potential to become a global historical treasure.

The public can access ACHDA website where the digitised results of hundreds of archives with high historical value are available. Several activities are carried out continuously by ACHDA including digitisation, portal updates and promotions.

“In the digitisation process itself, there are several stages that must be carried out, including selecting institutions and items to be digitised. Secondly, conducting an assessment and digitisation. Then finally, producing metadata and promoting the digitization results. Some of the item requirements that will be included in the digitisation selection process include location, size and characteristics,” said Gladys.

ACHDA also presents exhibitions in the form of e-exhibitions aimed at providing an attractive online exhibition appearance, by presenting local stories in the form of images/photos, sound, and videos.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA)- Phase 2 project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) publishes its news bulletin, The Column Volume 77. In this edition, two participants from the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme Batch Seven shared their experiences in this programme. Ms. Noor Hazmah Rosli from Brunei Darussalam and Ms. Siti Nur Afiqah from Malaysia had the opportunity to sharpen their knowledge and skills to be future leaders in disaster management.

Detailed stories are available on the: https://ahacentre.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/The-Column-Vol-77.pdf page 12-15.

The ACE Programme 2018-2020 is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Japanese Government, as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, has provided significant support to the AHA Centre and its programmes before the Centre’s inception in 2011 through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Japan also forms a key support mechanism for the AHA Centre Executive Programme (ACE Programme) that aims to prepare the future leaders of ASEAN in disaster management. This partnership, alongside strengthening ASEAN and Japanese ties and mutual support through disaster experience, have allowed for important financial stability and long term increases in human capital and infrastructure within the AHA Centre operational environment.

The JENESYS webinar on Japanese Food and Seasonings was held on 18 November 2021. A student from Ibaraki University delivered a presentation on Japanese food, Ibaraki Prefecture, attractions of the prefecture, and local cuisine. The participants observed the production process of mayonnaise and dressing at Goka factory of Kewpie located in Ibaraki Prefecture where factory staff explained the history of Kewpie mayonnaise, its ingredients, how to make delicious dressing, and also the company’s various efforts. The participants came to know that Kewpie mayonnaise is also eaten in space.

This webinar is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

The Japan Sports Agency (JSA) promotes women’s social participation and success through sports by creating an environment that encourages women to participate in sports. As part of this effort, JSA and ASEAN Secretariat will work together to promote gender equality through sports for the 10 ASEAN countries in which the Japanese government is cooperating in the field of sports during the Tokyo 2020 Games. JSA held a four-day workshop “ASEAN-Japan Workshop on Promoting Gender Equality in Sports”.

This campaign is part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Japan and Singapore have launched the second phase of a project that aims to develop and roll out monitor and report (M&R) systems for greenhouse gas emissions in industry facilities across the ASEAN Member States. Singapore’s National Environment Agency will oversee the project in collaboration with the Japan Overseas Environmental Cooperation Centre (OECC), with funding support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The collaboration is part of an initiative known as the Partnership to Strengthen Transparency for Co-Innovation (PaSTI) by the Japan’s Environment Ministry. The initiative aims to connect businesses with local governments to come up with incentives and tools to work towards reducing carbon emissions in the long term.

Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu launched Phase Two of the project on 12 November 20221 alongside Japan’s Environment Minister Yamaguchi Tsuyoshi at the Japan Pavilion at the COP26 Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, the UK.

See also news article from The Strait Times.

Singapore is joining forces with Japan to lift the standards of emissions monitoring and reporting in Southeast Asia, in an effort to help large emitters in the region cut their carbon footprint and increase their access to green financing schemes. Under the effort, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) will work with the Japan Overseas Environmental Cooperation Centre and other partners to come up with guidelines to help firms better measure and report their greenhouse gas emissions.

This will make up the second phase of the Partnership to Strengthen Transparency for Co-Innovation, which was launched on Friday, 12 November 2021 at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. The first phase of the partnership entailed discussions with more than 40 company and governmental representatives to identify the support firms needed in emissions measurement and reporting, and how such a framework can be applied across different countries in ASEAN.

The Development and Implementation of Facility/Company Level Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) Systems for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions in ASEAN Member States (AMS) is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Related news is also broadcasted by the Channel News Asia https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=J8eAGEEDMt8

The ASEAN-JAPAN Workshop on Promoting Gender Equality in Sports, a program aimed to promote gender equality in sports, was held for ASEAN countries in which the Japanese government is cooperating in the field of sports. About 70 participants selected from 10 ASEAN countries participated online. The workshop consisted of separate sessions: Policy Makers Workshop for the policymakers and the Young Women Workshop for the future leaders, in addition to the mixed sessions for all the participants. In the separate sessions, lectures and group discussions were held in line with the objectives and themes of each group, and these were shared in the mixed session to deepen the learning of this workshop.

The workshop is part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports which is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

*The original link is no longer available

JENESYS online school exchange between Temasek Polytechnic and National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Kure College was held on 6 November 2021. Students of each school introduced their school life in presentation. They also enjoyed talking during the breakout room session and exchange information regarding attractive places in Singapore, Japanese sweets, school uniform, and et cetera. This exchange is expected to deepen participants’ mutual understanding.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) has successfully conducted the 16th Online AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training, focusing on two courses, including Incident Response (IR) and Malware Analysis (MA) on 25 – 29 October 2021. The five-days training aimed to enhance the capacity of 24 cybersecurity participants from the public and critical information infrastructure (CII) sectors in ASEAN Member States.

The Centre is established with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to advance the competence of the governmental agencies and the CII operators in cybersecurity.

The JENESYS Webinar for Japanese university students was held on 4 November 2021. Mr. Yuki Nishimura, Embassy of Japan in the Lao PDR, deliver an informative lecture on the general situation of Lao PDR and its relations with Japan. Then, Mr. Shinji Hironaka, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) expert in Agri-tech, explained about Clean Agriculture Development Project in Lao PDR. Other expert from experts also gave valuable advice to those who want to work in the field of international cooperation.

This webinar is made possible with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) under the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project”.

The JENESYS online event will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Cambodia to build for future friendship and cooperation. In this webinar, after explaining about Japanese food, the participatns will be able to observe the production process of mayonnaise and dressing at the factory of Kewpie located in Ibaraki Prefecture. The webinar will take place on Thursday, 18 November 2021 at 2.00 – 3.30 PM (Cambodia time).

Undergraduate students in Cambodia are invited to register by 12 November 2021 through this link: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1255

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Trần Nam Khanh of Team 5O LQDTU giving a short speech for winning the Community’s Choice Award of the AHAckathon. The proposal from Team 5O is an app for data crowdsourcing and visualisation, aimed at providing better information for decision-makers. The app aims to connect humanitarian actors, governments and beneficiaries by providing a platform where affected people can quickly report their situation and needs. This report and data will be synthesised and aggregated, then visualised via custom maps and charts to quickly provide government authorities and humanitarian agencies with relevant information to take further action.

Check out the app of Team 5O, winner of the Community’s Choice Award, in this link: https://youtu.be/QOa8DGlMZO4

AHAckathon is part of the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online program for high school students, university students, and working adults of the Philippines was held on 28 October 2021. Mr. Inagaki of Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services (JICWELS) introduced the scheme of accepting Filipino candidates of nurse and caregiver based on Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement. Question and answer window was very active with many questions from the participants. The participants were able to understand the scheme and cooperative relationship between Japan and the Philippines.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Team 1B’s proposed app Smart ASEAN Disaster Relief App (SMART ADRA) won the first place of the AHAckathon. They offered an integrated dashboard and app for end-to-end coordination of the disaster relief process. SMART ADRA’s distinction is the key features aimed at each level of disaster response: Victims and those affected by disaster can make use of the app’s feature to request for help, as well as news updates and chatbot feature to communicate their needs and stay informed. When help arrives, they can use the QR authentication system to confirm receipt of aid, helping to reduce redundancy and oversupplying.

Overview of the app is available on the AHA Centre’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcTzPHcqj8w

AHAckathon is part of the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 27 October, H.E. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, attended the 24th ASEAN-Japan Summit Meeting which was held via video conference and chaired by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam. Following the opening remarks of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister Kishida delivered his opening remarks and expressed that Japan would vigorously advance efforts to achieve a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” in cooperation with ASEAN. Especially, he expressed his intention to welcome ASEAN leaders to Japan in 2023, which marks the 50th Anniversary of the ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, and hold a Commemorative Summit meeting to raise ASEAN-Japan relations to a new stage.

Prime Minister Kishida then illustrated Japan’s assistance to ASEAN to counter COVID-19 Pandemic including support to the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to become the core of regional efforts to counter communicable diseases. Japan has been consistently supporting ASEAN centrality and unity and has been advancing concrete cooperation in line with the priority areas of maritime cooperation, connectivity, SDGs and economy, based on the ASEAN-Japan Joint Statement on AOIP Cooperation adopted at last year’s ASEAN-Japan Summit. Japan issued a Progress Report of a total of 73 projects which included 49 cooperation projects announced at last year’s Summit as well as 24 additional projects. A number of project are supported through JAIF including Capacity Building of ASEAN TV Broadcasters through Documentary Program Production on Marine Plastic Waste in ASEAN, JENESYS, Assistance to the Most Vulnerable Groups (SMEs, Agriculture and Fisheries Communities), Development of the Report on the State of Climate Change in ASEAN Region, etc.

Further, with a view to leading the international community to achieve carbon neutrality, Japan announced the ASEAN-Japan Climate Change Action Agenda 2.0 which includes ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management and Carbon Footprint of Renewable Energy for ASEAN Countries that are supported through JAIF.

Following Prime Minister Kishida’s opening remarks, ASEAN countries congratulated Prime Minister Kishida on his assuming the office and the successful hosting of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, and expressed their high evaluation and appreciation for Japan’s leadership to counter COVID-19 including its provision of medical supplies including vaccines, the establishment of the ACPHEED, and financial support.

Detailed list of Japan’s Cooperation Projects on the AOIP is available on MOFA Japan’s website: https://www.mofa.go.jp/files/100253489.pdf

Chairman’s Statement of the 24th ASEAN-Japan Summit is available here:https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/73.-FINAL-Chairmans-Statement-of-the-24th-ASEAN-Japan-Summit-27-Oct-2021-1.pdf

H.E. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, attended the 24th ASEAN Plus Three (Japan-China-Republic of Korea) Summit chaired by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam which was held via video conference. The Prime Minister stated that Japan will continue to provide full support for the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) through developing the detailed design of the Centre, as well as providing training and dispatching experts through JICA. He also stated that Japan was offering assistance worth more than $200 million USD by providing medical supplies and equipment, and developing cold chains, while also mentioning Japan’s provision of more than 16 million doses of vaccines to the ASEAN region.

In response, the ASEAN side expressed their gratitude for the support from Japan, China, and the Republic of Korea for ASEAN’s response to COVID-19 including the provision of medical supplies and vaccines, and Japan’s support for the establishment of the ACPHEED.

The Feasibility Study of ACPHEED which was implemented in 2020, and the Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the ACPHEED which is currently underway are supported through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Related article is also available on Mission of Japan to ASEAN’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/japanmissiontoasean/posts/6617953494889387 while the Chairman’s Statement can be accessed here: https://www.mofa.go.jp/files/100252935.pdf

The 16th East Asia Summit (EAS) was held via video conference on 27 October. The Summit was chaired by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and attended by H.E. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan. In his remarks, Prime Minister Kishida said that he will work with EAS Leaders to vigorously advance a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” He also stated that he was encouraged that ASEAN had exercised its centrality and unity and made its own guidance clear by issuing the “ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP)” at the recent time when the rule-based order is being shaken and regional instability has become apparent.

Prime Minister Kishida expressed his intention to continue to enhance cooperation toward the realization of fair and equitable access to effective, safe and high-quality vaccines and the establishment of a robust and inclusive healthcare system, through assistance such as the provision of vaccines to ASEAN countries, “Last One Mile Support,” and support for the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED). Prime Minister Kishida stated that EAS is a premier forum where the leaders of each country frankly discuss regional political security issues, and that Japan will continue to advance cooperation through the EAS framework.

The Feasibility Study of ACPHEED which was implemented in 2020, and the Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the ACPHEED which is currently underway are supported through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Related article is also available on Mission of Japan to ASEAN’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/japanmissiontoasean/posts/6618022521549151 while the Chairman’s Statement can be accessed here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/96.-FINAL-Chairmans-Statement-of-the-16th-East-Asia-Summit-on-27-October-2021.pdf

On 14 October 2021, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, attended the commemoration of ASEAN DAY for Disaster Management. The ceremony was attended by the Chair of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management, H.E. Dato Lim Jock Hoi Secretary General of ASEAN, as well as international organisation Senior Officials and ASEAN Senior Officials on Disaster Management.

Ambassador CHIBA celebrated the launch of ASEAN Mapping Exercise and The Web-Based Monitoring and Evaluation System for the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025. He welcomed the 1st ASEAN Ministerial Meeting + Japan held on the same day and highlighted that Japan and ASEAN will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their friendship and cooperation in 2023 and that relationship between Japan and ASEAN will be even closer through promoting cooperation with ASEAN in a wide range of fields including disaster management.

ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management and The Web-Based Monitoring and Evaluation System for the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 are launched in commemoration of the 1st ASEAN Disaster Management Ministerial Meeting Plus Japan. These projects are supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund (JAIF).

The recorded version of the Commemoration is available on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SYoHUilDsM

See also related article from ASEAN’s Website: https://asean.org/asean-day-for-disaster-management-2021-strengthening-partnership-and-innovation-for-disaster-management-in-asean/ 

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), gathered for the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits on 26 October 2021 under the Chairmanship of Brunei Darussalam. The Summits were chaired by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and convened in accordance with the ASEAN Charter. It reiterated ASEAN’s support for Brunei Darussalam’s ASEAN Chairmanship under the theme “We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper”, which focuses on harnessing the caring nature of ASEAN to build a harmonious and resilient Community with the people at its centre; ensuring that ASEAN remains relevant through preparing and adapting for the future where its peoples can seize new opportunities, as well as overcoming existing and future challenges; and creating opportunities for people to benefit through initiatives that enhance the sustainable prosperity of the region. The Summit highlighted the importance of maintaining the momentum in cooperating within and beyond ASEAN for the pursuit of these goals.

Further, the Summit acknowledged Government of Japan’s (GOJ) support in community building efforts through the development of the Strategic Policy Framework on Promoting an Adaptive ASEAN Community of Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas Among the Peoples of ASEAN and ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme 2021-2025. With regards to response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Summit appreciated support from Japan and Australia towards the timely establishment and early operationalisation of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED). The Feasibility Study of ACPHEED which was implemented in 2020, and the Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases”, which is currently ongoing, are supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online program will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Timor-Leste. The program theme is disaster risk reduction to equip participants to know the risk reduction activities in Japan and Timor-Leste and understand what they can do. The program will be conducted on 29 November 2021 at 4.00-5.00 PM (Timor-Leste time).

For those who are interested can register through this link by 15 November 2021: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1222

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online program for high school students and undergraduate students in Cambodia was held on 25 October 2021. Mr. Motonari Sameshima gave an instructive lecture on the origin of Judo, the importance of doing Judo beyond victory or defeat, proper etiquette, and so on. The lecturers also demonstrated practical skills, various throwing techniques. It is hopeful that participants will gain interest to come to Japan in the near future and do Judo with Japanese Judo player.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which aims to encourage an understanding about Japan to general public of ASEAN Member States (AMS) and to build a basis for future friendship and cooperation.

The JENESYS online webinar for undergraduate students, graduate students, and working adults in Myanmar was held on 24 October 2021. Ms. Hisami Andrade gave an instructive lecture on Japanese society, culture, religion, changes in education system, business etiquette, and so on. The participants showed great interest as they learn a lot about Japan.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The increasing amount of air conditioners (ACs) usage, particularly in emerging economies with hot climates, driven by the growing income and technological advancement, accumulates to the energy demand rise.  The room air conditioning market in ASEAN member states is expected to grow by over 10 percent annually over five years, with sales of over 10 million units in 2018. Since the energy consumption will increase substantially along with the growing number of ACs -improving ACs Efficiency will be critical to reducing energy demand. Moreover, it could also address life cycle costs, peak load, and emissions impact.

Harmonising the metric standard in the ASEAN region can ensure performance measurement and increase energy efficiency while aligning with the international AC-efficiency efforts. Furthermore, developing a regional policy roadmap to harmonise national and regional energy-efficiency standards & labelling that align with international standards (U4E Model Regulation Guidelines) is essential to guide ASEAN member states in capturing cost and energy savings from more efficient ACs minimising environmental impacts and encouraging innovation.

Through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), the Government of Japan has been supporting this initiative through The Promotion of Higher Efficient Air Conditioners in ASEAN through Harmonisation of Standards and Strengthening of Market Verification and Enforcement Capabilities (Phase I) project.

This article is also published on the ASEAN Centre for Energy’s website: https://aseanenergy.org/improving-efficiency-of-air-conditioners-in-asean/

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) announces the winner the AHAckathon during Awarding Ceremonies and Closing Programme on 22 October 2021. The AHAckathon is a competition to develop software or codes to solve society’s problems – in this case, challenges faced by ASEAN governments in humanitarian logistics. Team Malaysia came as the winner with its SMART ADRA application. Reksa Mandala and ResQ are in the 2nd and 3rd place respectively.

AHAckathon is part of the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Recorded version of the Awarding Ceremonies and Closing Programme is available on the AHA Centre’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9-uK8l7zyQ

On 7 October 2020, H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, attended the Virtual Launch of the ASEAN State of Climate Change Report (ASCCR) and Kick-off Meeting for the Development of the 6th ASEAN State of Environmental Report. Approximately 100 people joined the ceremony including H.E. Kung Phoak, the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN (Social-Cultural Community), ASEAN Senior Officials on Environment, and a number of representative and experts from ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

Ambassador CHIBA remarked, “As the first global stocktaking will take place in 2023 to assess the collective progress towards achieving the purpose of the Paris Agreement, it is highly meaningful that ASCCR has been launched, prior to such a critical juncture.” He also expressed his expectation that various activates and efforts to advance environmental sustainability will take place even more in the region.

Both of these two reports are being developed by the ASEAN Secretariat in cooperation with the Japan Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN State of Climate Change Report can be accessed here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ASCCR-e-publication-Final-12-Oct-2021.pdf

JENESYS Online Webinar for Japanese students was held on 20 October 2021. Mr. Ryusei Yamashita, Second Secretary, Japan Information Service (JIS), Embassy of Japan in Thailand gave an informative lecture on the general situation of Thailand and friendly relations between Japan and Thailand. It is hoped that the participants were able to deepen their understanding of Thailand through this lecture.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of its establishment, Mission of Japan to ASEAN released a special video on Japan-ASEAN friendship and cooperation. The video not only embraces Japan-ASEAN’s path, but also reaffirms the commitment to promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the region. “Japan has stood and will continue to stand firmly with ASEAN as an equal partner, and our partnership will be reinforced ever more in years to come,” H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN said.

Full version of the video can be accessed on Embassy of Japan to Indonesia and Mission of Japan to ASEAN’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TX4ZtKbzDkw

The JENESYS online program will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Timor-Leste. For those who is interested to get to know about Japan and build future friendship and cooperation between the two countries are invited to attend this webinar. The program will be conducted on 22 November 2021 at 4.00-5.00 PM (Timor-Leste time).

For those who are interested can register through this link by 15 November 2021: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/1189

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The 39th Meeting of ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management was successfully conducted on 11 October 2021 under the Chairmanship of Singapore Civil Defence Force. The Meeting discussed the implementation of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 to strengthen the future of disaster management in the region.

The AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 is formulated up until output level to provide flexibility in the implementation phase when developing, mixing and matching inputs and activities. The work programme includes guidance on the implementation mechanisms for activities formulated to achieve the intended output. The development of the Work Programme is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 can be accessed here.

JENESYS online webinar for Japanese University Students was held on 18 October 2021. Mr. Fumiaki Okada, First Secretary, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, Mr. Michio Suda, Colonel (Ret.), Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, and Ms. Yukiko Sano, JICA Expert gave lectures regarding the peace process in Mindanao, the Philippines. Participants learned a lot from lectures with great interest.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS alumni online event for Thailand and school exchange with Tokyo University of Foreign Studies was held on 17 October 2021. Two JENESYS Alumni from Thailand gave presentations on their experience in the JENESYS program. Three Japanese students from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies also gave presentations on the difference between Japanese and Thai language, how Japanese people spend their New Year holidays, and the current social conditions in Japan. Then, the participants enjoyed talking about food in both countries, Japan’s tourist attractions, Japanese anime, etc. It is hoped that this exchange will deepen their mutual understanding and that they will be able to meet in person in the future.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supported by the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), concluded its second cycle of training on Project Proposal Writing for Vietnamese officials. Hosted by the Vietnam-Singapore Cooperation Centre in Hanoi, the training was conducted online from October 4 to 15, with 24 Vietnamese officials from nine ministries and two government organisations in attendance.

The Republic Polytechnic of Singapore facilitated the first half of the training meanwhile ASEC, through its Programme Cooperation and Project Management Division, facilitated the second half particularly to train Vietnam’s future project proponents on the development and management of ASEAN cooperation projects (ACPs), as well as the mechanism to tap into available resources.

ASEC invited the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Management Team (JMT) to share their experience in project proposal development and monitoring and evaluation from an ASEAN partner’s perspective. Meanwhile, ASEC’s Finance and Budget Division shared project budget formulation and project fund disbursements, as well as reporting. Through various exercises and group works, participants enhanced their knowledge of ACPs and the processes throughout the ASEAN project cycle.

The First ASEAN-Japan Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management (1st AMMDM Plus Japan) was held on 14 October 2021 via virtual conference, under the co-chairmanship of H.E. K. Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law of the Republic of Singapore, and H.E. Satoshi Ninoyu, Minister of State for Disaster Management of Japan. It was held back-to-back following the 9th AMMDM and 10th Meeting of Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER). Japan and ASEAN affirm their longstanding relationship and common objective to achieve substantial reduction of disaster losses in lives and assets, and enhance disaster resiliency of our region through joint collaboration and cooperation in disaster management.

ASEAN appreciated Japan’s continued support through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) in the area of disaster management under following projects: ASEAN-Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT), the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA), the establishment of an Integrated ICT System and the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme, Development of AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025, and ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management Report, which was launched at the sidelines of the 1st AMMDM Plus Japan.

ASEAN, together with partners, reaffirmed the commitment to boost cooperation in enhancing disaster resilience in the region at the 9th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management (AMMDM) and 10th Meeting of Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER), and their related meetings. The meetings took place on 11-14 October via video conference, hosted by Singapore as the Chair of AMMDM in 2021.

The meetings took note of several achievements, including the launch of ASEAN Disaster Resilience Outlook: Preparing for a Future Beyond 2025; Web-based Monitoring and Evaluation System of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025; the report of the ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies; ASEAN Centres and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management; ASEAN-UN Joint Strategic Plan of Action on Disaster Management IV 2021-2025; ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Adaptation to Drought 2021-2025; and ASEAN Regional Framework on Protection, Gender and Inclusion in Disaster Management 2021-2025.

The 9th AMMDM and 10th Meeting of COP to AADMER were chaired by Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Singapore’s Minister of State of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, and attended by representatives from ASEAN Member States and the Secretary-General of ASEAN Dato Lim Jock Hoi. The Chairman Statement can be accessed here.

The Development of AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 including its web-based monitoring-evaluation system and the ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management projects are supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to raise the ASEAN people’s public awareness on the importance of disaster risk reduction during the commemoration of ASEAN Day for Disaster Management (ADDM) 2021. The ADDM is convened annually and jointly with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) every 13 October. This year’s commemoration took place on 14 October via video conference, hosted by Singapore as the current Chair of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management (AMMDM).

In his remarks, the AMMDM Chair, Associate Professor Dr. Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, noted that “the commemoration demonstrates ASEAN’s commitment and efforts towards disaster reduction and management. This leads to an important end goal – to alleviate the hardship and suffering of peoples of ASEAN, who live in one of the most disaster-prone regions in the world.” The commemoration witnessed the progress made through partnership and innovation, including the embarkation of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 implementation, and the capitalisation of new technologies to chart the progress through the Web-based Monitoring and Evaluation System, which ensures that ASEAN is on-track towards meeting the goals of its five-year plan.

Further, the commemoration welcomed the finalisation of key documents that set strategic actions in disaster management, in the next five years. This includes the launch of (i) the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Adaptation to Drought 2021-2025; (ii) The ASEAN Framework on Protection, Gender and Inclusion 2021-2025; (iii) The ASEAN-UN Joint Strategic Plan of Action in Disaster Management (JSPADM) IV 2021-2025; (iv) the ASEAN Disaster Resilience Outlook; (v) the ASEAN Mapping Exercise; and (vi) the Web-Based Monitoring and Evaluation System for the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025.

The Development of AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 including its web-based monitoring-evaluation system and the ASEAN Mapping Exercise to Promote Synergy with Other Relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and Entities Associated with ASEAN on Disaster Management projects are supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The recorded version of the Commemoration is available on the ASEAN Secretariat’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SYoHUilDsM

See also related article from ASEAN’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/aseansecretariat/posts/239897391498869

The JENESYS webinar “Recycling” was held on 13 October 2021. Recycle Plaza JB explained recycling cans, bottles, and plastic bottles placed in recycle bins of vending machines in Japan. The participants observed the actual recycling process taking place in the factory. They showed great interest in the recycling process and asked many questions to the lecturer.

This webinar is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

13 October marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. On this day, the ASEAN Secretariat would like to invite you to flip through the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) to learn about the five priority programmes: https://bit.ly/AADMERWP_2021-2025

The Development of AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 including its web-based monitoring-evaluation system is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The face of Hindu God Kala is depicted on this 13th century pendant made of gold and gemstones, part of the National Museum of Indonesia’s collection of digitised cultural heritage items on the ACHDA website.

In its time, this piece of jewelry could only be worn by the aristocracy of Indonesia’s Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms. It was used as an accessory in everyday clothing and had a sacred function in religious rituals, believed to be able to dispel negative energies.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). The project was recently completed with the following notable achievements: launch and regular update of ACHDA online platform and digitisation of a total of 160 cultural heritage items by NTT Data in the three pilot ASEAN Member States (Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand). The Phase 2 project is ongoing to conduct digitisation in Cambodia and Myanmar.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) is the physical hub for cybersecurity training for ASEAN Member States (AMS) with the endorsement of ASEAN Telecommunications and Information Technology Ministers Meeting (TELMIN) and Telecommunications and Information Technology Senior Officials Meeting (TELSOM) in 2018. The Centre is established with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) to advance the competence of the governmental agencies and the Critical Information Infrastructure operators in cybersecurity.

The Centre aims to develop a cybersecurity workforce of 700+ over four years to enhance the capacity of cybersecurity experts and specialists in the AMS by providing trainings and other activities to participants from AMS.

JENESYS had an online webinar for governmental officials and business people regarding fisheries value chain in Japan. Fisheries Agency of Japan gave a very instructive lecture and participants of Indonesia and Timor-Leste actively participated in Q&A session.
It is expected that the program promoted mutual trust and understanding among participants of Japan, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste to build for future friendship and cooperation!

This online webinar is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Upgrading cybersecurity manpower skills to be ready to deal with ongoing online threats is another important strategy in the operation of Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Thailand. In addition to having the Thailand Computer System Security Coordination Center (ThaiCERT), ETDA has been tasked to implement the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) with a grant from Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) by continuously developing cybersecurity personnel of 10 ASEAN Member States. In addition, the Center has supported Cyber ​​SEA Game competition event that brings together new generation to enhance cybersecurity from all ASEAN countries.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) launched its first State of Climate Change Report (ASCCR). The report provides an overall outlook on the state of climate change in the ASEAN region and outlines opportunities for cooperation and collaboration towards 2050 climate targets. Published ahead of the global climate change conference in Glasgow this year, the report represents a milestone for ASEAN, signifying a renewed, bolder collective commitment towards global climate agenda.

“The report is designed to inform and guide the region and ASEAN Member States towards ambitious climate change targets, through a framework for transparency and transformative action to mitigate and adapt to climate change,’’ said Kung Phoak, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community.

“As the first global stocktaking will take place in 2023 to assess the collective progress towards achieving the purpose of the Paris Agreement, it is highly meaningful that ASCCR has been launched, prior to such a critical juncture,” remarked H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN.

In conjunction with the launch of the ASEAN State of Climate Change Report, ASEAN also kicks-off the development of the 6th ASEAN State of Environment Report, after the last one was published in 2017 as part of the commemoration of the Golden Anniversary of ASEAN. The development of the ASEAN State of Climate Change Report and the 6th ASEAN State of Environment Report was initiated and coordinated by the ASEAN Secretariat, together with the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies and national think tanks from ASEAN Member States, under the purview of the ASEAN Senior Officials on Environment.

The initiatives were made possible with the support of the Japanese government through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

To enhance the capacity of cybersecurity personnel of ASEAN Member States for the creation of more robust cyberspace amidst the pandemic in which the usage of cyberspace has been increasing. The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC), with the support from the Government of Japan and ASEAN nations, has conducted 15th Online AJCCBC Cybersecurity Technical Training, concentrating on (1) Incident Response/ CYDER and (2) Network Forensics on 27 September – 1 October 2021.

The training has the objective in enhancing the capacity of cybersecurity personnel for the subjugation and reduction of cyber threats, which also has been improving themselves. The training was conducted within a 5-day period: the first 2.5 days focused on Incident Response/ CYDER and the remaining 2.5 days on Network Forensics.

Despite the invalidity of in-person training due to the policy to limit COVID-19 exposure, the participants from ASEAN Member States have harvested fruitful knowledge in protecting their respective organizations and countries. The Centre still looks forward to contributing more to the region.

The AJCCBC is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

For related article please see Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) Thailand’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ETDA.Thailand/posts/5081303641883171

Mr. Kutsuna introduced a lot of origami works and taught the participants how to make several cute works. Participants enjoyed making their own origami works, for example, crane, pretty box, and glider. They were able to make something from only one paper.

This online webinar is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Minister Budi G. Sadikin explains Indonesia’s strategy for securing an adequate and steady supply of COVID-19 vaccines, the progress of its national vaccination rollout, and approaches to addressing vaccine hesitancy. As current chair of the ASEAN Health Ministers Meeting, he also outlines key regional initiatives designed to facilitate Member States’ recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic and enhance preparedness and resilience against future public health crises.

The Minister states that there are 11 new health initiatives, including the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) as the first organisational instrument to manage and coordinate resources and whole aspects of health response. Following the adoption of the ASEAN Strategic Framework for Public Health Emergencies, the ASEAN Public Health Emergency Coordination System (APHECS) programme is developed to support the implementation of this framework. APHECS is a multi-year programme that aims to institute a region-wide formal whole-of ASEAN mechanism to better prepare for and respond to public health emergencies. It also aims to harmonise existing, ongoing, and upcoming relevant initiatives.

Government of Japan provided supports through A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of the ACPHEED and Detailed Design and Preparation Support for the ACPHEED projects which are implemented through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Read the full interview at The ASEAN Magazine Double Issue August-September 2021, page 6-9.

The ASEAN Secretariat recently released the ASEAN Development Outlook (ADO). Flip through the report to learn new perspectives in achieving inclusive and sustainable development. The ADO offers comprehensive lens in reviewing ASEAN’s progress, foresees development trajectories and provides recommendations for policy makers and ASEAN sectoral bodies.

The report is structured across four key thematic areas: Identity; Natural and Built Environment; Livelihoods, and; Social Welfare and Health. Under Identity section, it highlights the importance of heritage that provides a powerful symbol of the culture of a society. The importance of heritage in ASEAN deliberations can be pinpointed to key initiatives. In 2018, the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) was made possible under the auspices of the ASEAN Senior Officials for Culture and Arts, as supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). At the end of February 2020, the ASEAN Secretariat opened the ACHDA at ASEAN headquarters in Jakarta. The archive preserves the rich and diverse cultural heritage of ASEAN and showcases a veritable treasure trove of exemplary artefacts and history (see page 80-84 for more elaboration on ACHDA).

In Natural and Build Environment section under Disaster Management subsection (page 128-133), it examines about ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management (AADMER) which is at the centre of the ASEAN efforts for regional coordination of disaster management. The AADMER and its Work Programme 2021– 2025 is introduced and explored in the context of the needs of ASEAN and the pressures on the region arising from frequent natural disasters and vulnerabilities. The Development of AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 is supported by the Government of Japan through JAIF.

The ASEAN Dissemination Workshop on the Substitution and the ESM of Mercury-containing Medical Measuring Devices was convened on 28 September 2021 by the Waste and Resource Management Cluster of RRC.AP. The workshop was a wrap up project activity of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) project titled Development of Capacity for the Substitution and the Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of Mercury-containing Medical Measuring Devices implemented in the Philippines and Indonesia.  The project contributes to the prevention of adverse impacts of mercury on human health and the environment in the ASEAN region.

The ASEAN dissemination workshop aims to disseminate outcomes and key findings from the project, and experiences of international organizations to 10 ASEAN Member States (AMSs), lessons learned and discussed the way forward. The ASEAN Dissemination workshop was well attended by 47 participants from AMS and other international organisations.  Information on the activities on related mercury management projects in the region along with mercury waste management technology and experiences of Japan were presented by EXRI, Nohmura Kohsan UNEP ROAP, and UNEP GMP, respectively.

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) online webinar was held for the participants from Viet Nam on 24 September 2021. Mr. Hijikawa Kento from Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries gave an instructive lecture on farmland maintenance system in Japan, the achievements and current situation of farmland maintenance, and related smart agriculture technologies. In question & answer session, the participants exchanged opinions with the lecturer on the problems of farmland maintenance that Japan and Viet Nam are facing.

This online webinar is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The students of Pitago High School (Manila, the Philippines) and Hokusei Gakuen Univ. High School (Hokkaido, Japan) had an online exchange on 24 September 2021. Both schools made wonderful presentations about their cultures and school life. The participants found similarities and differences between the two. Big smiles shared during the exchange bridged participants from the two countries.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Grow Asia is pleased to welcome the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as a key supporter in the implementation of the Learning and Accreditation Program (LAP) of the ASEAN Guidelines on Promoting Responsible Investment in Food, Agriculture and Forestry (ASEAN RAI). The goal of the LAP is to train participants on how to practically apply the ten core environmental, social and governance principles of the ASEAN RAI.

◾ Learn more about the ASEAN RAI here: www.aseanraiguidelines.org
◾ Learn more about the LAP here: https://lnkd.in/g_5vjCFZ
◾ Learn more about JAIF here: https://jaif.asean.org/

Grow Asia is the implementing agency of the Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Programme to Implement ASEAN-RAI Guidelines, a program made possible with support from the Food, Agriculture and Forestry Division (FAFD) of the ASEAN Secretariat and sponsorship from Senior Officials Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (SOM-AMAF).

If you miss going to museums, galleries and other public spaces, why not check out the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) virtual exhibition at the DOOR virtual space developed by NTT Data? Visitors can view the Belt Buckle from Malaysia, Prajnyaparamita Sculpture from Indonesia, and Manuscript Cabinet on Pig-legged Stand from Thailand in 3D, while also talking to friends using the voice and text chat features, just like visiting a museum!

Visit the DOOR prototype at https://door.ntt/web/rooms/museum_entrance.html

The  project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) online webinar will be convened to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Lao PDR for future friendship and cooperation. This program is for undergraduate students, graduate students, working adults in Lao PDR. In the program, participants will be able to learn about recycling cans, bottles, and plastic bottles placed in recycle bins of vending machines in Japan. Participants will also be able to observe the recycling process in the factory.

The webinar will be held on Wednesday, 13 October 2021 at 2:00PM -3:30PM (Lao PDR time). Interested participant are invited to register through this link: https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/991?fbclid=IwAR1f-0AHHDPiWU_5xVvME94aAfayn6a-1qL9uEqOH-YHKlCHtl6bqyihf-k. The maximum number of participants is 40. Please note that the committee will accept applications in the order they are received and stop accepting applications when the limit is reached.

This online webinar is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supported by the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), concluded its training on Project Proposal Writing for Cambodian officials. Hosted by the Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre in Phnom Penh, the training took place both offline and online from 9 to 22 September, with 23 Cambodian officials from nine Ministries in attendance.

ASEC invited the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Management Team (JMT) to share their experience in project proposal development and monitoring and evaluation from an ASEAN partner’s perspective. ASEC’s Finance and Budget Division also shared project budget formulation and project fund disbursements, as well as reporting.

Following the five-day training with ASEC, participants developed four drafts of regional project proposals in the areas of gender equality in workforce; electronic commerce; TVET and labour market harmonisation; and women’s economic empowerment on ICT. Upon completion, participants received a joint certificate issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ASEC.

The ASEAN Secretariat in collaboration with National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Philippines published a book titled: Images of ASEAN: Celebrating 50 Years of Collaboration through Culture and Information. This publication showcases activities and projects delivered from 1993 to 2018, including Capacity Building of ASEAN TV Broadcasters Through Documentary Program on ASEAN–Japan Cooperation which is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

This publication represents a continuation of a previous publication entitled “The Arts and Media of ASEAN,” which documented the activities of the serves as useful reference for the ASEAN Community.

The publication is available for download here, page 171 https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Images-of-ASEAN_celebrating-50-years-of-collaboration-through-culture-and-information.pdf

Students from PREKLEAP High School and CHEA SIM SAMAKI High School, Cambodia had an online exchange with Business Inquiry course students from Tokushima Commercial High School, Japan on 21 September 2021. The participants delivered presentations fluently in English. They also had an interactive discussion in the breakout rooms. It is expected that the exchange will aid to bring global perspective to the young people in both countries.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) alumni from Lao PDR and Japan had an online exchange on 18 September 2021. Japanese students from Nakui Agricultural High School gave a presentation about Aomori prefecture, their school, local food, aguriculture around their school, and Japanese drum “Wadaiko.” The participants from Lao PDR enjoyed the Wadaiko performance video. They also enjoy discussing about each other’s culture, school life, and so on.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Japanese high school students had an online exchange with Indonesian people on 17 September 2021. The former participants of JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) greeted each other and introduced their culture and history. The event was followed by Japanese students delivered a presentation about their school life and had a discussion with Indonesian people at breakout rooms.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) online webinar was held on 16 September 2021. Mr. YOSHIKAWA Hideo, Trustee, Secretary-General of Nippon Budokan, gave an instructive lecture on Japanese martial arts “Budō.” The online webinar aims to deepen the participants’ understanding on the history, culture and spirit of Japanese martial arts. It is hoped that the participants will come to Japan in the near future and experience Budō first hand.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN, led by its Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi, handed over USD 1.1 million worth of medical supplies and equipment ready to be distributed by the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) for immediate support to the COVID-19 response, in a handover ceremony held virtually today.

In his remarks, Dato Lim Jock Hoi underscored the importance of the initiative to showcase the solidarity in the spirit of ‘One ASEAN, One Response’ to extend a helping hand to the people of Myanmar in the realisation of a people-oriented, people-centred ASEAN Community.

The Executive Director of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), representatives of ASEAN Member States, donor countries and other organisations attended the ceremony.

The AHA Centre, as the operational lead, facilitates the delivery of assistance. Meanwhile, the MRCS, as a local partner, supports ASEAN by providing last mile distribution of the medical supplies and equipment to the communities in need in Myanmar.

An article titled “ASEAN Delivers on COVID-19 Humanitarian Assistance to Myanmar” is published on the Column Vol.77.

The Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) funded the project Support towards ASEAN’s Effort on COVID-19 Response to Myanmar through the Provision of Medical Supplies and Equipment for Phase 1 (Life-Saving).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) Online Program was implemented on 14 September 2021. Brunei Land Transport Department introduced the vehicle inspection system in Brunei Darussalam and Mr. Akiba from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan gave a lecture regarding the Vehicle Inspection System in Japan. It was a good opportunity to share the knowledge regarding the topic.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) will be hosting an online webinar called “Let’s enjoy ORIGAMI” to promote friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Japan. The webinar will be held on Wednesday, 6 October 2021 at 2:30PM – 3:30PM (the Philippines time).

JENESYS invites high school students, university students and working adults who are interested in Japanese culture to participate and register here https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/893?fbclid=IwAR3ySW7vSEXLbnWioa3LTnrAmzkHrbH2PjdROmudP5NF2WVJ1RyV8XD5eZA by 24 September 2021. The committee welcomes 50 participants. Registration link will be closed once reached 50.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) will be hosting an online Friendship City Webinar “Batik and Japan Blue” to promote friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Japan. The webinar will be held on Wednesday, 6 October 2021 at 2:30PM – 4:00PM (Jakarta time).

JENESYS invites high school students, university students and Working Adults who are interested in Japanese culture to participate and register here  https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/894  by 24 September 2021. The committee welcomes 50 participants. Registration link will be closed once reached 50.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2021 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

To support the ongoing COVID-19 response in Thailand, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), Thailand mobilised 3,065 personel hygiene kits (PKH) to Samut Prakan Province, Nonthaburi Province, and Dusit District in Bangkok.

Funded by Direct Relief through the AHA Centre, the items were mobilised from the Disaster Emergency Logistics Systems for ASEAN (DELSA) Satellite Warehouse in Chainat, Thailand and witnessed by the Deputy Director-General of DPPM Thailand, Mr. Chainarong Vasanasomsithi.

DELSA was established as key mechanism to allow swift provision for relief items to ASEAN countries with the support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) online program was held on 7 September 2021. Viet Nam high school students from Quảng Nam province and Japanese students from Wakayama prefecture encountered online and learned about each other’s culture. At the break-out rooms, they have discussed their everyday lives. May the students meet in person and deepen their friendship in the future!

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) welcomes a new collection of 20 cultural heritage treasures courtesy of the National Museum of Cambodia!

Dating from the 6th through 13th century, these precious artefacts are largely related to the two main religions that were and continue to be practiced in Cambodian society until today – Hinduism and Buddhism.

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

As part of the effort to help foster greater understanding in the region, the ASEAN Secretariat and the Senior Officials’ Committee for ASCC Council (SOCA) Brunei Darussalam convened the ASEAN High-Level Cultural Forum (HLCF) to discuss various ways of promoting regional understanding, tolerance and solidarity.

Youth engagement, biodiversity conservation, community building, and digital adoption were some of the key recommendations generated to help sustainably nurture a culture of peace, tolerance, and greater understanding.

The HLCF was part of the Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN project, supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Read the full article at The ASEAN Magazine page 45-47: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/The-ASEAN-Sustainable-Cities-June-July-2021.pdf

ASEAN published Annual Report 2020-2021 in August 2021 showcasing its community building efforts during the period. A midst the ongoing global pandemic, ASEAN is committed to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of its people, in line with the theme of ‘We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper’ under Brunei Darussalam’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2021.

The Report highlights achievements in each ASEAN Community Pillars including through projects supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). Japan continued to support establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases to strengthen ASEAN’s regional capabilities during public health emergencies. As iterated by Prime Minister SUGA Yoshihide at the Japan-ASEAN Summit in November 2020 “I am delighted to be able to jointly announce the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases. Japan will spare no effort in helping the Centre develop into an institution…”

Japan’s support in ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community is evitable through the development of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme for 2021-2025 which was adopted on 27 November 2020. Furthermore, to further increase awareness of ASEAN, the Culture Sector launched the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive, so ASEAN’s people can appreciate online the rich cultural artefacts from AMS. To foster understanding, tolerance, and a sense of ASEAN’s agenda among the peoples of individual AMS, the Culture Sector is leading the development of a Regional Policy Framework to guide ASCC efforts. Both initiatives are also supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which are currently underway.

JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) online webinar for high school students in Thailand was held on 28 August 2021. Ms.Hisami Andrade delivered a fascinating lecture about Japanese society and culture. The participants were able to learn a lot about the attraction of Japan.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS online program was implemented on 25 August 2021. Japan Coast Guard gave a lecture regarding the organizational structure and its mission. Participants from the organizations regarding marine security of Indonesia and Timor-Leste deepen their understanding about Japan’s marine security through lecture and Q&A session.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities shared its Regional Showcase Video for 2018-2020 that shows what have been accomplished in the past two years on localizing SDGs in ASEAN region.

The ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme – Upgrading the ASEAN ESC Model Cities Programme was implemented by Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

 The 1st ASEAN Virtual Regional Conference of Public Librarians was held from 23 to 25 August 2021 with the theme “ASEAN Libraries, Arts, and Culture: Inspire, Innovate and Collaborate”. The main objective of this virtual regional conference is to provide a venue for learning and appreciation of the ASEAN libraries, arts, and culture as well as, their inspiring stories, initiatives, collaborations, and innovations.

On the second day, Ms. Punnapa Suksakorn, focal point of National Library of Thailand as well as one of the keynote speakers delivered her remarks on the Library Portal: Assessment of Library Advocacy Practices for Regional Cooperation. During her presentation, she introduced ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) as an example of regional cooperation.

The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) is made possible with the support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The recorded version of the session is available on National Library of the Philippines’ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYDh-IaCrtw

Between Thailand and RCEP member countries, the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA, hereinafter referred to as the “Japan-Thailand Agreement”), the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement, and the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA), ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA), ASEAN Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) are in effect. The EPA utilization rate of Japanese companies in Thailand exceeds 80%, which is the highest level among ASEAN member countries, but with the entry into force of RCEP, any agreement will be used, including economic partnership agreements with China, South Korea, and Japan. Then, it is expected that the movement to further improve the utilization rate of the agreement can expected, such as which agreement is most beneficial to the company or whether it is necessary to review the optimal supply chain.

ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) is funded by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Workforce Survey 2021 has been conducted to identify cybersecurity workforce demand within ASEAN region with 14 questions.

The survey was available for 13 days from 27 July through 10 August 2021 and completed by 76 ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) alumni from every ASEAN Member State. The AJCCBC highly appreciates the participation from respondents for being part of creating a more robust cyber space together.

The AJCCBC was established with support from Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The AHA Centre is pleased to share the AHA Centre Work Plan 2025. The Work Plan was developed in line with the 2021-2025 ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme and was adopted by the Governing Board on 8 June 2021.

The Work Plan includes several projects supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), namely:

• AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020
• The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse
• Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) System to Strengthen the Operation of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre) – Phase IV
• Strengthening ASEAN’s Collective Response Capacity through the Enhancement of the Capacity Building of the Regional ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) (2020 – 2022)

Full version of the Work Plan is available here https://ahacentre.org/publication/aha-centre-work-plan-2025/

The Humanitarian & Emergency Logistics Innovation Expo (HELIX) is back! The AHA Centre invites the tech-savvies across ASEAN to solve humanitarian logistic challenges in the region to join the AHAckathon. It is a 48-hour app design and coding marathon that will take place on 8 October 2021.

If you wish to participate whether as an individual or a team of 8 you may register through this link: https://ahacentre.org/ahackathon_applyhere

This event is part of the The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online webinar will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among peoples of Japan and Lao PDR to build for future friendship and cooperation.
This program is for high school students, undergraduate students, graduate students, working adults in Lao PDR. The lecture aims to deepen your understanding of the history, culture and spirit of Japanese martial arts. The webinar will be held on 16 September 2021, at 4.30-6.00 PM (Laos Time).

Interested participants are invited to register on https://jice-inex.smktg.jp/public/seminar/view/760.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In between the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Games, over 70 government officials, sports professionals and youth leaders from Japan and ASEAN came together to strategise for women empowerment and gender mainstreaming in and through sports.

For more detailed information of the event, please visit https://asean.org/asean-japan-sports-figures-and-young-leaders-convene-for-gender-equality-in-sports/

This workshop is part of the ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which is currently underway.

Upgrading cybersecurity manpower skills to be ready to deal with ongoing online threats. It is another important strategy in the operation of Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), Thailand, in addition to having the Thailand Computer System Security Coordination Center (ThaiCERT) that serves to alert and give advice on how to deal with cyber threats to the organization and the CERT network. Globally, ETDA has also been commissioned to operate the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) since 2018 to develop cybersecurity personnel of 10 ASEAN Member States.

However, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic situation, AJCCBC’s training and activities must change to online format. The Capacity Building Workshop 2021 was held online via e-Meeting system on Wednesday, 11 August 2021, attended by 80 people from across the ASEAN region with the support of the ASEAN Secretariat. AJCCBC has been honored by experts who have a lot of experience in related fields as speakers. It is hoped that the next course will receive the same attention as this one and hope that it will be another step of success for all participants.

The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) is welcoming 21 professionals in disaster management from 10 ASEAN Member States officially joined the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme Batch 7 on 6 August 2021. The opening ceremony was held online and well attended by the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN H.E. Kung Phoak, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN H.E. CHIBA Akira, Executive Director of the AHA Centre Ms Adelina Kamal, ambassadors and representatives from ASEAN Member States as well as Dialogue Partners and partners of ASEAN.

With the support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), this year’s programme will be conducted in a hybrid arrangement for eight months with aims to develop future leaders of Disaster Management in ASEAN through on-the-job training and various training programmes for officers from National Disaster Management Offices of ASEAN Member States.

In the spirit of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Japanese Center for Research on Women in Sport (JCRWS) of Juntendo University co-organised the Open Symposium on Gender Equality in Sports with the Japan Sports Agency (JSA) and ASEAN Secretariat, and support from the UN Women. The Symposium is part of the four-day ASEAN-Japan Workshop on Gender Equality in Sports held from 10 to 13 August. Over 70 participants consisting of government officials, representatives of the Women in Sports Commissions of the National Olympic Committees, young female sports leaders and youth leaders of the UNESCO’s Youth Task Force on Sports for SDGs, gathered online to develop a feasible action plan to empower women in and through sports.

The four-day workshop employs a two-track approach, one tailored for policy makers and another one for young female leaders. Participants jointly formulated a set of policy recommendations to promote the participation of women and girls in sports through ASEAN cooperation and in the respective countries.

ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports is a project under the ASEAN Plus Japan Senior Officials Meeting on Sports (SOMS+Japan) funded by the Japanese government through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). A public awareness campaign on the participation of ASEAN women and girls in sports will take place in December 2021, involving ten prominent female sports ambassadors across the region.

See also related article from ASEAN’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/aseansecretariat/photos/a.10150347651743854/10159783596868854?_rdc=1&_rdr

On the occasion of International Youth Day, the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia introduced the JENESYS (Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) as one of the exchange programmes advanced by the Japanese government to promote international exchange among youth. If the COVID-19 situation gets better this year, JENESYS intends to invite approximately 1,700 youths from the Asia Pacific region, including over 100 from Malaysia to Japan.

As part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2019 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” (JENESYS2019), more than 100 high school students from all over Asia visited Japan after nominated in the “13th Asian International Children’s Film Festival”. Three groups of students from Malaysian secondary school who have produced excellent films were nominated for the festival and visited Japan to present their work in-person in December 2019. A film entry called “Mirror” by students from the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Panchor, Negeri Sembilan was selected as the Minister of Foreign Affairs Award 2019 winner.

It is hoped that the COVID-19 situation gets better soon and the JENESYS programme could resume as soon as possible. Meanwhile, JENESYS is holding exchange programs through online webinars. For those who are interested are invited to follow the Facebook page where the Embassy will share information when application is open.

On Wednesday, 11 August 2021, ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) conducted “AJCCBC Cybersecurity Capacity Building Workshop”, an online workshop concentrating on two of many cybersecurity essences – “Executive Cyber Leadership” and “Course, Training, Education, and Awareness (TEA)”. In order to create a more robust cyber space within ASEAN Member States, the workshop, with the support from ASEAN Secretariat, invited and was joined by 80 participants across the region.

Despite being a one-day session, the workshop was able to provide a productive session by having experienced and knowledgeable professionals from various well-respected and recognized organizations, including Mr. Atsushi Umino from Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC), Japan, Mr. Martijn Van de Heide from ThaiCERT, Mr. Barry Greene from Akami, Mr. Shin Adachi from NTT-CERT, Mr. Adli Wahid from APNIC, and Sharon Mudd from Software Engineering Institute. Their time and efforts are highly appreciated and valuable to the cybersecurity field.

The AJCCBC is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF)

The AHA Centre conducted opening ceremony of 7th batch of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme virtually via video conference. The participants from this batch are 21 professionals in disaster management from 10 ASEAN Member States.

This programme is part of ACE Programme 2018-2020 supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which is currently underway.

Recorded ceremony is available on the AHA Centre’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJKdDxj62rw

Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) held JENESYS Online Webinar Theme: Ocean Plastics Pollution on 6 August 2021. Mr. Hikari from Yoron Town, Kagoshima delivered the lecture and introduced their policies against ocean plastics pollution. In addition, volunteer group, “Unjami” had a presentation about their beach cleaning and its outcome. Participants enjoyed opinion exchange with lecturers.Japan has been conducting various international cooperation activities related to the problem of marine plastic litter. We hope that Japan and Asian countries will continue to work together to preserve our beautiful oceans.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JENESYS Online tea ceremony experience was held on 4 August 2021. Ms. Kawada Souai, Mr. Funakoshi Souei, Professor of Urasenke school, gave a lecture on the tea ceremony and then they demonstrated authentic tea ceremony. The participants learned about the tea ceremony, its folklore, its etiquette, and how wonderful it is. It is hope this opportunity has been a valuable experience for the participants.

This program is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The teaser about ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities will tell you who we are, what we do and where we’ll be heading.

ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme – Upgrading the ASEAN ESC Model Cities Programme is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 4 August, commencing at 8:00 PM for 2 hours and 30 minutes, the East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (Chair: Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II, Brunei Darussalam) was held in an online format. Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, attended the meeting. The overview of the meeting is Response to COVID-19, Regional Situation and Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

During the meeting, Minister Motegi reiterated that Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific Region (AOIP) share fundamental principles, and announced that Japan will advance specific cooperation in AOIP priority areas that will lead to the further development of AOIP.

Government of Japan provided supports in response to COVID-19 through A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and has been supporting the AOIP through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as one of the mechanisms with the implementation of various projects contributing to maritime cooperation, connectivity, SDGs, economic and other possible areas of cooperation.

The Chairman’s Statement is available in here: https://www.mofa.go.jp/files/100220788.pdf 

The 54th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) was held on 2nd August 2021 via videoconference. The Meeting was chaired by Brunei Darussalam under the theme “We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper.” We reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to care for its people and prepare for future opportunities and challenges, in order to advance sustainable development for shared prosperity in the region.

The Joint Communique acknowledged Japan’s support in community buildings in ASEAN. The meeting appreciated and welcomed the support from Japan and Australia towards the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED), while encouraging other external partners to support its operationalisation. In the area of cybersecurity, the meeting recognised the role of cybersecurity activities and training programmes of the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (ASCCE) in Singapore and the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) in Bangkok in complementing existing ASEAN efforts in cybersecurity capacity building. A Feasibility Study on the Establishment of “ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases” and ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre are supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The meeting emphasised the importance of ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN) as a platform for catalysing cooperation in smart and sustainable cities development in the region through technological and innovative solutions. Japan has been supporting the ASCN through the Promotion of ASCN by Commencing a High-level Meetings. In the areas of disaster management, the meeting welcomed the launch and the implementation of the AADMER Work Programme 2021-2025 and to advance ASEAN’s priorities and capabilities in managing disasters in the region. Promotion of ASCN by Commencing High-level Meetings and the Development of AWP 2021-2025 are supported by the Government of Japan through JAIF.

The full statement can be downloaded here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Joint-Communique-of-the-54th-ASEAN-Foreign-Ministers-Meeting-FINAL.pdf

Upgrading cybersecurity manpower skills to be ready to deal with ongoing online threats. It is another important strategy in the operation of ETDA, in addition to having the Thailand Computer System Security Coordination Center (ThaiCERT) that serves to alert and give advice on how to deal with cyber threats to the organization and the CERT network. Globally, ETDA has also been commissioned to operate the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) with support from the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) since 2018 to develop cybersecurity personnel of 10 ASEAN Member States.

However, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic situation, AJCCBC’s training and activities must change to online format. Most recently, in June, AJCCBC conducted a survey ′“AJCCBC Survey on COVID-19 Situation and Cybersecurity Trainings” to assess training needs and opinions on the current COVID-19 situation:

The survey was completed by 103 AMS respondents from cybersecurity fields and AJCCBC alumni on 18th June 2021. The result suggests that:

• 71% rather believe that international travel within ASEAN region will be restricted in 2021.
• 77% rather believe that the COVID-19 situation will be under control within 2021.
• 51% support the idea of having trainings and Cyber SEA Game conducted online.
• 42% consider online activities to be sufficiently effective.

The result of the survey would be considered in conducting the next trainings.

On August 3, commencing at 5:15 PM for 1 hour and 50 minutes, the 22nd ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held in an online format. Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II, Brunei Darussalam, chaired the meeting. From the Japanese side, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan attended the meeting.

At the outset, Minister Motegi expressed his congratulations for the achievements of the athletes representing the ASEAN countries, as well as China and the Republic of Korea (ROK), and wished for their continued success. Minister Motegi then made the statements regarding progress in Japan’s cooperation concerning COVID-19. With regard to the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases, in order to develop the Centre into a hub for the region’s fight against public health emergencies and emerging infectious diseases, Japan will continue to provide full support through, among others, the construction of the Centre and provision of equipment through the approximate 50 million US dollars Japan has already contributed via the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund, as well as technical cooperation such as training and the dispatch of experts.

In response, the ASEAN side expressed its gratitude for Japan’s support for the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases, and made statements emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in relation to COVID-19 countermeasures and post-COVID-19 recovery.

The Chairman’s Statement is available in here: https://www.mofa.go.jp/files/100220786.pdf

The regional Workshop on Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN was held on 3 August 2021. It discussed on how to strengthen cross-sectoral collaboration to foster greater awareness and sense of regional belonging among ASEAN citizens.

This project is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

On 3 August, Preekamol Thanomsakchai, Executive Director of Foreign Office, the Government Public Relations Department of Thailand, along with representatives from ASEAN Division, attended the “ASEAN Regional Workshop on Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas Among the Peoples of ASEAN” via video conference, which was organised by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports of Brunei Darussalam, the Chair of ASEAN for 2021.

The Regional Workshop reviewed and discussed the Zero Draft of Strategic Policy Framework on Promoting an ASEAN Adaptive Community of Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN, which will serve as an overarching document to lend greater coherence and narrative in guiding ASEAN’s cross-sectoral efforts to foster greater understanding, tolerance and a sense of regional agendas.

The Zero Draft will be revised according to recommendations from the Regional Workshop, in preparation for its adoption by the ASEAN Leaders at the upcoming 38th ASEAN Summit in October 2021.

The strategic policy framework is an outcome of Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN project supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC), the Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) held an online capacity building activity for ASEAN competition authorities with the theme “JAIF Virtual Training Course on Unilateral Conduct and Abuse of Dominance”. The activity which lasted for three days was attended by Investigators from various competition authorities of ASEAN member countries.

This event is part of the Technical Assistance for ASEAN Competition Authorities to Strengthen Competition Law Enforcement in ASEAN Region – Second Phase project supported by the Government of Japan Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) program for the field of business competition law and policy. This project was initiated and implemented by KPPU to assist the development of competition law enforcement capacity in ASEAN. It is hoped that through this project, KPPU or Indonesia can contribute significantly in helping other ASEAN members to develop legal regimes and business competition policies.

The ASEAN Secretariat presented and introduction to the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) at the Seminar on Digital Preservation and Education of Cultural Heritage: Asian-European Perspectives on 29 July 2021.

To learn more about ACHDA and other efforts to preserve cultural heritage around the world, go to http://dpech.disanso.vn/

The ACHDA project is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

How do we develop and inculcate a sustainable culture of peace, tolerance and greater understanding in the region? How do we incentivise peace-building and development to promote greater understanding, mutual respect, tolerance, and regional solidarity? These were the two guide questions that framed the panel discussion entitled ASEAN High-Level Cultural Forum (HLCF) on Promoting an Adaptive ASEAN Community of Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas Among the Peoples of ASEAN. The discussion was held via a video conference on 27 May 2021.

The HLCF was organised by the ASEAN Secretariat in collaboration with the Senior Officials’ Committee for ASCC Council (SOCA) Brunei Darussalam as one of the projects under the ASEAN-Japan Cooperation titled Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN. Further, the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA), which houses the digital representation of the region’s most significant cultural heritage objects, is one of the ways ASEAN can promote intercultural understanding. Both  projects are supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which aim to promote greater understanding and sense of regional identity in ASEAN.

Following the HLCF, the regional policy framework will be further refined. It is being prepared for adoption by the ASEAN Leaders during the 38th ASEAN Summit at the end of the year, as part of the deliverables under the ASEAN Chairmanship of Brunei Darussalam.

Article is available for download on The ASEAN Magazine, Issue 14 June-July 2021, page 45-47.

Study tour about Disaster prevention for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam was held on 30 July 2021.

Participants from ASEAN have learned how to approach SDGs in disaster situations. Mr. NAGATA Hirokazu from an non-profit organisation (NPO) Plus Arts explained the importance of edification and prior knowledge to prepare for a disaster.

JICE appreciates participants who joined the session. In today’s disaster-prone world, it is important to extend the power of learning to the next generations.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting discusses the draft ASEAN Strategic Policy Framework on Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN.

The meeting was attended by Yang Mulia Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari, Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports as the Chair of Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (SOCA); and joined by Chairs, Vice Chairs and representatives of ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Sectoral Bodies namely Senior Officials Meeting on Culture and Arts, Senior Officials Meeting Responsible for Information, Senior Officials Meeting on Education, Senior Officials Meeting on Sports, and Senior Officials Meeting on Youth; Officials from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, JAIF Management Team; Project Consultant and the ASEAN Secretariat.

The meeting also discussed preparations for the upcoming ASEAN Regional Workshop, scheduled to be held early August this year. The Strategic Policy Framework will serve as an overarching document to lend greater coherence and narrative in guiding ASCC’s efforts to promote greater understanding, tolerance and to imbue a sense of regional agendas among the peoples of ASEAN.  It will also one of the outcome documents under ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Pillar to be submitted to the ASEAN Leaders for adoption at the 38^th ASEAN Summit.

On 26 July, Brunei Darussalam, the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Chair, organised the 2nd Project Steering Committee Meeting of the project on Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN (GUTRA) via video conference.

The Meeting reviewed the outcomes of the High-Level Cultural Forum and GUTRA report, as well as exchanged views on the Zero Draft of the Strategic Policy Framework on GUTRA, in preparation for its adoption by the Leaders at the 38th ASEAN Summit.

Fostering Greater Understanding, Tolerance and a Sense of Regional Agendas among the Peoples of ASEAN is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

See also related article on Ministry of Culture of Brunei Darussalam’s website: http://kkbs.gov.bn/Lists/News/NDispForm.aspx?ID=1179&ContentTypeId=0x0100ECC89185A7F5E74A8CA7B999A4454ABE

*The original link is no longer available

In 2017, the Japanese government and ASEAN held the 1st “Japan-ASEAN Sports Ministers’ Meeting (AMMS + Japan)” to strengthen resilience and ASEAN by promoting healthy and prosperous lifestyles and people-to-people connections through sports. We aim to build promises between the region and the people of Japan. For this cooperation at the government level, the Juntendo University Women’s Sports Research Center (Director: Etsuko Ogasawara) is an action to promote gender equality in sports and strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and Japan. We are pleased to inform you that the workshop will be held with the following outline as the executing agency of “Workshop on Promoting Gender Equality in Sports”. Furthermore, on the second day, an open symposium will be held as a program that can be attended by the general public. In addition, two students from our university are scheduled to participate as representatives of Japan for “young female sports leaders” from ASEAN countries.

This project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). JAIF was established in March 2006 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the purpose of supporting the efforts of ASEAN countries to promote ASEAN integration, reducing regional disparities, and supporting activities to promote cooperation between Japan and ASEAN.

In 2017, ASEAN and Japan held the First ASEAN Plus Japan Ministerial Meeting on Sports (AMMS+Japan) to foster a strong sense of resilience and building solidarity with the peoples of ASEAN region and Japan by promoting a healthy lifestyle and developing close people‐to‐people ties through sports.

Following this High‐Level commitment, Japanese Center for Research on Women in Sport (JCRWS) at Juntendo University (Executive Director: Etsuko Ogasawara) is pleased to announce the convening of “ASEAN‐JAPAN Workshop on Promoting Gender Equality in Sports”, an action to promote gender equality in sports. As part of the ASEAN‐Japan Actions on Sports project, this event contributes to the implementation of ASEAN‐Japan cooperation in sports and ASEAN Work Plan on Sports 2021‐2025.

The workshop is made possible by ASEAN-Japan Actions on Sports project which is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

His Excellency Awang Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), attended the 19th ASEAN-Japan Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) Leaders Conference on 13th July 2021 via video conference.

The 19th ASEAN-Japan STOM Leaders Conference was co-chaired by by Mr. Chheing Pich, Director-General, General Department of Logistics, Ministry of Public Works and Transport of Cambodia in his capacity as Chairman of the ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) in 2021 and Mr. Yamagami Noriyoshi, Director- General for International Affairs, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan.

The conference discussed the implementation status of projects under the ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP) framework for the consideration of ASEAN and Japan transport ministers. These include deliverables for 2021 namely The Report under Proof of Concept (PoC) on ICT Solutions for Over-loaded Vehicle Control; and ASEAN-Japan Guidelines of Certification Audits for Cold Chain Logistics. The conference is in preparation for the 20th STOM+Japan and the 19th Meeting of ASEAN and Japan Transport Ministers (ATM+Japan) scheduled to be held next November.

The Proof of Concept (PoC) on ICT Solutions for Overloaded Vehicle Control is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

See also related article from the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) website: http://www.mtic.gov.bn/Lists/News/NewItemDisplay.aspx?ID=821   

His Excellency Awang Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), attended the 19th ASEAN-Japan Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) Leaders Conference on 13th July 2021 via video conference.

The 19th ASEAN-Japan STOM Leaders Conference was co-chaired by by Mr. Chheing Pich, Director-General, General Department of Logistics, Ministry of Public Works and Transport of Cambodia in his capacity as Chairman of the ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) in 2021 and Mr. Yamagami Noriyoshi, Director- General for International Affairs, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan.

The Conference is an annual platform for ASEAN and Japan to deliberate on priority transport related initiatives under the framework of ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP). The Meeting discussed the Report under Proof of Concept (PoC) on ICT Solutions for Overloaded Vehicle Control which is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The Mission of Japan to ASEAN and the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) co-hosted a webinar on “Japan-ASEAN Cooperation based on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific” on Thursday, 8 July from 15:00 to 17:00 (Jakarta Time).

H.E. CHIBA Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN and Prof. Firman Noor, Head of LIPI gave opening remarks. Dr. TAKAHARA Akio from the University of Tokyo and Mr. Nanto Sriyanto from LIPI joined the webinar to provide the audience with their insights on the future cooperation between Japan and ASEAN.

Those in the audience were given certificates of attendance, signed by the hosts.

The ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) has many fundamental principles that are shared with Japan’s policy and Japan is committed to continue their support to Japan-ASEAN cooperation through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Recorded version of live webinar is available on LIPI’s channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo-k0tYXdFI

The JENESYS online webinar for the participants of the Philippines was held on 10 July 2021. Dr. Nakamura Akira, distinguished professor emeritus at Meiji University, gave a lecture “An Introduction to Government and Society of Japan”. The lecture was so interesting and participants enjoyed a lot. Through this lecture, the participants  were able to deepen their understanding of Japan’s Politics and Economy and Social Issues.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The JENESYS online webinar for the participants of Lao PDR was held on 7 July 2021. Mitsubishi Electric gave a lecture on the company’s state-of-the-arts manufacturing technology, examples of the company’s recent initiatives and training of engineers to science university students and working adult in Lao PDR. They learned that the company’s technology is also being used in Lao PDR.

This event is part of the Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

Hosted by JICE, JENESYS is calling university students in Cambodia to experience online tea ceremony. This online event will be implemented to promote mutual trust and understanding among people of Japan and Cambodia to build future friendship and cooperation.

The webinar will take place on Wednesday, 4 August 2021 at 2:00 PM – 3.30 PM (Cambodia time).

The event is part of the  Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs JENESYS2020 “Inbound, Outbound and Follow Up Project” supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).