JMT News

LOS BANOS, 09 June 2023 – As part of the monitoring mandate, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) visited the proponents and implementing agencies of JAIF projects in the Philippines. One of them was the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB), which has been a long-time implementing partner of JAIF since 2010.

The visit aimed at providing a briefing to the ACB on JAIF essential rules and procedures and was attended by 13 ACB’s operations and programme staff members.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Arvin Diesmos, Director of the ACB Information Management Unit, expressed ACB’s appreciation for the support from the Government of Japan through JAIF. He further added that the briefing on JAIF procedures would greatly help the ACB in ensuring the smooth implementation of JAIF-funded projects.

MANILA, 08 June 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) joined the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to ASEAN and the ASEAN Secretariat for the ASEAN Project Development Training in Manila, Philippines on 8 June 2023.

More than 60 representatives from various departments and agencies from the Philippines had an opportunity to learn how to apply for JAIF funding and implement ASEAN Development Cooperation projects funded by the Government of Japan.

After a presentation on JAIF procedures and essential rules, JMT responded to questions from enthusiast participants about JAIF’s priority areas and potential areas of cooperation.

JAKARTA, 06 June 2023 – The Mission of Japan to ASEAN held an opening ceremony of the commemorative exhibition of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation at the ASEAN Secretariat. The two-week exhibition aimed to promote a better understanding of ASEAN-Japan relations and cooperation, highlighting the commemorative year.

The ceremony was attended by Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States, ASEC officials, students from the Jakarta Japanese School (JJS), and the JAIF Management Team. The Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, the Permanent Representative of Thailand to ASEAN, the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Political-Security Community, and a student representative from the JJS delivered short remarks to congratulate the event.

On the same day, the 17th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee (AJJCC) was held in the ASEAN Secretariat where a meaningful exchange of opinions took place regarding the preparation for the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit at the end of this year.

JAKARTA, 06 June 2023 – 42 junior high school students and teachers from the Jakarta Japanese School (JJS) visited the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), accompanied by officials from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN and the ASEC Community Relations Division.

Welcoming the study visit by the students to ASEC, JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director Naoki Minamiguchi provided them with a briefing on the ASEAN Secretariat and ASEAN-Japan cooperation through JAIF.

Afterwards, the students met Mr Srun Rida, a contemporary visual artist from Cambodia, as he creates an art piece on unity amidst diversity in ASEAN. They also visited the ASEC’s Resource Center, ASEAN Gallery, Nusantara Hall, and the ASEAN Gift Shop.

In the afternoon, the students had the opportunity to attend the opening ceremony of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation Panel Exhibition showcasing Japan’s contribution to ASEAN through JAIF.

Through their visit to the ASEAN Secretariat, they are expected to broaden their perspectives of ASEAN and deepen their understanding of ASEAN-Japan cooperation.

JAKARTA, 29 May 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended a virtual inception meeting of the Technical Assistance to Strengthen Competition Law Enforcement in ASEAN – Phase 3 on 29 May 2023.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Trade Competition Commission Thailand (TCCT), the International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD), and the ASEAN Secretariat’s Competition, Consumer Protection & IPR Division.

A presentation by JMT on JAIF rules and procedures, including its monitoring, evaluation, financial management, and visibility guidelines, was given to the project stakeholders, followed by a question-and-answer session.

The objective of the project is to assess and enhance the effectiveness of the competition regime in the ASEAN Member States. JAIF has continuously supported the project since the first phase in 2016.

PHNOM PENH, 24 May 2023 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, in collaboration with the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), conducted the fourth cycle of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Project Proposal Writing Training for Cambodia officials on 16-25 May 2023.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) was invited to share monitoring experiences and explain its approach to monitoring and proposal development requirements specific to JAIF.

A total of 30 Cambodian officials from 20 ministries and agencies participated in the training and developed four drafts of regional project proposals on different topics.

JAKARTA, 16 May 2023 – The 17th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) was convened at the ASEAN Secretariat on 16 May 2023. The meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Mission of Thailand to ASEAN and the Mission of Japan to ASEAN. Representatives from all ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste, the ASEAN Secretariat, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the meeting. During the face-to-face meeting organised for the first time since the end of the Covid-19 Pandemic, a wide range of topics were discussed to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan cooperation, especially in alignment with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

The meeting acknowledged and extended its appreciation for Japan’s support and looked forward to the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit to be held in Tokyo in December 2023 to reinforce the partnership between ASEAN and Japan.

JAKARTA, 15 May 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) had an opportunity to provide a project inception briefing to the stakeholders of the new project, ASEAN-Japan Special Youth Forum for Promoting the Rule of Law.

The briefing was conducted at the onset of the project implementation to help the stakeholders understand the essential rules and procedures of JAIF for efficient and effective project implementation, such as monitoring and reporting, fund management and visibility.

It was attended by representatives from the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ) and the Asia Crime Prevention Foundation (ACPF). The TIJ and the ACPF serve as the proponent and the implementing agency of the project, respectively. The Treaty Division of the ASEAN Secretariat also participated in the briefing.

The ASEAN-Japan Special Youth Forum for Promoting the Rule of Law is expected to be attended by 60 youth participants aged between 18 and 25 years old from ASEAN and Japan. It aims to strengthen and promote the “rule of law” and “rule-based frameworks” by enhancing the understanding and knowledge of the young generation on the rule of law, particularly in the context of digital and technological advancement.

JAKARTA, 08 May 2023 – The ASEAN-ERAT Level 3 Course is part of 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). It has been supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

At the opening ceremony of the ASEAN-ERAT Level 3 (Team Leader) Pilot Course held in Bogor, Indonesia, JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director Naoki Minamiguchi delivered opening remarks underscoring that the training course not only enhances the capacities of individual participants as team leaders but also fosters greater collaboration and synergies among different stakeholders in disaster response and management.

During the intensive one-week course, 11 ASEAN-ERAT Team Leaders from seven ASEAN Member States were trained to lead ASEAN response operations on the ground as experienced, competent, and trusted humanitarian response managers. They will play key roles in providing directions to other ASEAN-ERAT members in responding to disasters and emergencies across the region in the spirit of One ASEAN, One Response.

JAKARTA, 03 May 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) welcomed the junior officers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV) to a JAIF briefing session. The officers are currently on the attachment programme under the Initiative for the ASEAN Integration (IAI) and working with relevant divisions of the ASEAN Political-Security Community, the ASEAN Economic Community, and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community for one year to gain knowledge and understanding of regional cooperation.

The programme aims to assist CLMV countries to meet ASEAN regional commitments and ensure that the benefits of ASEAN integration are equally shared. JAIF has supported more than 100 officers from CLMV through the programme for more than a decade.

In his welcome remarks, Director Minamiguchi of JMT highlighted the importance of the programme in ASEAN’s integration efforts and encouraged the officials to make the best use of the opportunity. The Head of the IAI-Narrowing Development Gap (IAI-NDG) Division, Ms. Sumitra Jayaseelan, shared how much the programme is appreciated not only by CLMV countries but also by the ASEAN Secretariat.

JMT Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa provided a presentation about JAIF and JMT, followed by a discussion about the planned activities of the attachment programme, including a visit to Japan later this year.

QUEZON CITY, 26 April 2023 – The First Regional Consultation Workshop of the JAIF-supported project, Strengthening the Capacity Development for Local Governments in ASEAN to Tackle Microplastics and Water Pollution through Decentralised Wastewater Management Approach (PoDIWM-2), was conducted in a hybrid set-up and had a total of 67 participants, 40 of which participated onsite while 27 participated online via Zoom. The participants represented national and provincial local government units of the Philippines, universities, ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).

JAIF Management Team (JMT) Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe, in his welcome message, highlighted the progress of the baseline investigations, a regional guidebook, and training modules which is important to have the same understanding and expectation of the project’s implementation. He also emphasised the success of the project is crucial for implementing the ASEAN Framework of Action on Marine Debris, ASEAN Strategic Plan on the Environment, the G20 Osaka Blue Ocean Vision, the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

JAKARTA, 16 March 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) was paid a courtesy visit by Mr. Norimasa Shimomura, UNDP Resident Representative in Indonesia. JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi welcomed him and appreciated his considering JAIF as a stakeholder of UNDP’s initiative and UN-wide efforts to support ASEAN Member States.

The visit by Mr. Shimomura provided an excellent opportunity for the two parties to explore areas for possible future partnerships, such as energy security and blue economy, which would help commemorate the 50^th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. Amongst ASEAN counterparts, close collaboration with the Government of Indonesia – the ASEAN Chair in 2023 – was considered as one of the entry points for concretising the scope of UNDP’s assistance to ASEAN Member States and elaborating a course of action to take through specific projects whether they may be funded by JAIF or other partners.

JAKARTA, 16 March 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) underwent training on how to perform effective stakeholder interviews. The half-day training was delivered by a communication consultancy firm, PT Kreativitas Ganesha Sejahtera in the JMT office.

The participants learned about different techniques to conduct an interview, such as academic and journalistic techniques. JMT also had the opportunity to ask questions during an interactive session about creating a rapport with interviewees and how to throw follow-up questions.

The training is expected to help JMT with monitoring and outreach-related activities, which include assessments of project performance and identification of challenges and opportunities, as well as capitalising on human stories to win or enhance support for JAIF.

NUSA DUA, 15 March 2023 – The First In-person Workshop of the ASEAN Academy on Responsible Investing was convened in Bali, Indonesia on 15 – 17 March 2023.

The workshop is one of the activities of the JAIF-funded project Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Programme to Implement ASEAN-RAI Guidelines, implemented by Grow Asia in cooperation with the ASEAN Secretariat.

The Academy, a learning and accreditation programme, aims at creating change agents who will promote increased responsible investing in food, agriculture, and forestry sectors across ASEAN. This pilot program runs for four months from February to May 2023 and includes e-learning modules, two in-person workshops, ‘change project’ creation, and optional coaching sessions.

The first of the two in-person workshops was attended by a range of learners, from large multinational corporations to national government and civil society organisations. Welcoming the 50 participants, Ms. Erin Sweeney, Director, Programs of Grow Asia, encouraged them to make the best use of the in-person workshop by learning from expert trainers and each other. In her opening remarks, JMT Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa highlighted that the development of the Academy underscores Japan’s commitment to further promoting resilient and sustainable agriculture and food systems, by putting into practice the ASEAN Guidelines on Promoting Responsible Investment in Food, Agriculture and Forestry.

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM, 6 March 2023 – The Third Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of Disaster Emergency Logistic System of ASEAN (DELSA) Phase III was attended physically by the co-chairs from Malaysia, Myanmar and Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand as the host countries of the DELSA Satellite Warehouses, Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting discussed the progress of key activities and project implementation, including the delivery of relief items under DELSA Phase II and suggested options as well as the financial status of the DELSA Phase III. The meeting also updated the participants on the appraisal process of the DELSA Phase IV project proposal, and JMT also guided the AHA Centre team to prepare a project completion report as the project will end at the end of March 2023.

HA NOI, 23 February 2023 – A briefing session on JAIF rules and procedures for the Vietnam Japan University (VJU) in Ha Noi was conducted on 23 February 2023.  VJU is the proponent cum implementing agency of the JAIF project, Educating High-Quality Human Resources for Mekong Sub-Region at Vietnam Japan University.

The briefing session delivered by JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe was attended by six members from VJU. The briefing, which was intended to enhance their understanding of JAIF procedures and requirements for JAIF visibility, was appreciated by VJU. VJU sought additional clarification on the selection of an auditor. At this opportunity, JMT also shared with VJU some copies of the JAIF pamphlet JAIF Contributions to the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) 1973-2023.

DA NANG, 22 February 2023 – The Fourth Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for 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), or ASEAN-ERAT Phase II, was co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand and attended in person by representatives from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Viet Nam, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT). A representative from Myanmar joined the meeting virtually.

The meeting provided updates on the accomplishment of the ASEAN-ERAT Phase II project, including budget utilisation. Amongst the notable accomplishments made to date, 61 ERAT members were trained in the induction courses. The meeting also informed that each of the Humanitarian Logistics course and Civil-Military Coordination course scheduled on 3-14 April 2023 would train 15 members – i.e. 30 members in total – while training for 15 Team Leaders will be conducted on 8-18 May 2023.

In addition, the sustainability of the project was discussed in the meeting. JMT provided comments and briefed on its appraisal process.

JAKARTA, 15 February 2023 – H.E. Ar. Siti Rozaimeriyanty Dato Haji Abdul Rahman, newly appointed Secretary General of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), and Deputy Secretary General Mario Pandu Dewono, paid a courtesy visit to the JAIF Management Team (JMT). The visit not only provided a valuable opportunity to introduce JAIF and AIPA to each other but also helped JMT better understand important roles that AIPA plays in strengthening regional cooperation and creating one community in ASEAN, for which JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi expressed his appreciation.

After exchanging perspectives on future collaboration and cooperation, H.E. Rahman visited the JMT’s operations room, and in return, the JMT team was invited to a quick walk-through the AIPA office.

Overall, the courtesy visit paid the way for strengthening the ties between AIPA and JAIF, and the JMT team expressed their readiness and openness to explore opportunities for collaboration with stakeholders like AIPA towards advancing regional integration in ASEAN.

JAKARTA, 13 and 23 February 2023 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) showcased an exhibition panel and photo booth at the Commemorative Symposium for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation on 13 February 2023 and also at the Japan’s National Day Reception (Celebration of the Birthday of the Emperor of Japan) on 23 February 2023. The Commemorative Symposium aimed to kick off a series of 50th year commemorative events this year.

The exhibition panel features the history of Japan-ASEAN cooperation and JAIF’s contributions to the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), while explaining about the meaning of the 50th-year logo, playing a new JAIF video, and disseminating AOIP Pamphlets to the symposium participants. In addition, a photo taking booth with landmarks of Japan and ASEAN countries was set up.

The exhibition panel and photo booth attracted many visitors, enhancing awareness about JAIF and Japan-ASEAN cooperation. At the booth, JMT members interacted directly with the visitors and provided further explanations about JAIF. The booth is designed to be portable and will be set up at other commemorative events throughout the year.

JAKARTA, 7 February 2023 – Six Attachment Officers (AOs) from the Mission of Lao PDR to ASEAN visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) on Tuesday, 7 February 2023. They were briefed about JAIF and the work of JMT. Director Minamiguchi of JMT welcomed the Officials from the Lao Mission and wished them a successful programme while they work and learn in Jakarta.

Deputy Permanent Representative of Lao PDR to ASEAN, Mr. Sengpraarthid Snookphone, expressed his appreciation to JMT for welcoming the AOs for the third time. Since last year, 18 AOs from the Lao Mission have visited JMT Office and attended the briefing on JAIF and JMT.

JMT Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa and Senior Programme Officer Billy Sumuan provided a presentation on JAIF and JMT to the delegates, followed by a Q&A session.

MALAYSIA, 11 January 2023 – The First Regional (Inception) Workshop of the ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities (SDG-FCs) Programme Phase 2 was held in Seberang Perai, Penang, Malaysia on 10-11 January 2023. The hybrid workshop was attended by approximately 130 participants comprising representatives from the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) as the project’s implementing agency, ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT). Local governments nominated as participating cities of SDG-FCs and resource persons from Malaysian supporting organisations also attended.

Participating online on the second day from Jakarta, JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe provided a briefing on the key details of JAIF project management, including JAIF rules and procedures as well as expectations concerning project implementation, impact evaluation, financial reporting, and other important matters.

JAKARTA, 13 December 2022 – We are very excited to announce the launch of JAIF Facebook and Instagram accounts on 13 December 2022.

These official platforms disseminate information on JAIF’s contributions and engagement with ASEAN and its stakeholders to a wider audience. This initiative would also be the prologue to commemorate the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

We look forward to sharing JAIF activities and engaging with everyone to further promote cooperation between Japan and ASEAN.

Please follow our Facebook and Instagram to see more exciting updates to come.

JAKARTA, 6 December 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended a series of training courses on social media management in anticipation of launching of JAIF social medias. The trainings were delivered in three sessions by PT Kreativitas Ganesha Sejahtera, a communication consultancy firm.

The first session on Documentation, Storytelling and Content Creation was held on 9 November, followed by the second session on Strategy and Content Planning on 26 November. The last session on Analytics and Approaches to Engagement was held on 6 December.

Through the theory and exercises, the trainings provided JMT with knowledge and skills on strategic communication and content creation, not only for social media management but also for enhancing the content of JAIF Website.

JAKARTA, 1 December 2022 – H.E. KIYA Masahiko, the new Ambassador of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) Office on 1 December 2022 at the ASEAN Secretariat, following his arrival in Jakarta on 30 November 2022.

JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi welcomed and congratulated the Ambassador for taking on the noble duties. Ambassador Kiya noted JMT’s work in promoting cooperation between Japan and ASEAN and appreciated JMT’s continuous efforts to commemorate the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in 2023.

Ambassador Kiya is the sixth Ambassador of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN since Japan established the Mission in 2011. For his inauguration message and profile background, please refer to the Mission of Japan to ASEAN’s webpage here

JAKARTA, 1 December 2022 – On 1 December 2022, four delegates from Grow Asia, one of the Entities Associated with ASEAN, visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) to update on the progress of their ongoing project, Creation and Testing of Learning and Accreditation Programme to Implement ASEAN-RAI Guidelines.

Executive Director of Grow Asia, Ms. Beverley Postma, expressed appreciation for JAIF’s support to the project, which constitutes an important part of Grow Asia’s efforts in bringing together multi-stakeholders to cultivate more resilient and sustainable food systems in Southeast Asia. Ms. Erin Sweeney, Lead, Sustainable Investment & Inclusion of Grow Asia, briefed JMT on the progress of the Learning and Accreditation Programme, which is scheduled to be launched in February 2023 with an initial cohort of 50 participants from the region.

JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi and Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa welcomed their visit and thanked for their continued cooperation. The meeting then discussed possible areas for further cooperation between Grow Asia and JAIF.

Grow Asia also visited the ASEAN Secretariat’s Food, Agriculture and Forestry Division to further discuss the project’s progress and work plan.

JAKARTA, 1 December 2022 – On 1 December 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended a virtual inception meeting of the Development of a Diagnostic Tool to Assess Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises’ (MSMEs) Digital Readiness.

Apart from JMT, the meeting was attended by representatives of the AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC) Secretariat and the ASEAN Secretariat’s Enterprise & Stakeholders Engagement Division and ASEAN Connectivity Division. Active discussion took place among the participants following a presentation by JMT on JAIF rules and procedures, monitoring and evaluation, financial management, and guidelines on visibility.

The overall objective of this project is to enhance MSMEs’ adoption of digital skills and technology as well as their participation in the digital economy.

JAKARTA, 10 November 2022 – The inception meeting of the Capacity Building for Government Officials/Staff to Bridge the ASEAN Digital Divide in the Post-Covid 19 project was held virtually on 10 November 2022. The meeting, which was initiated by the Ministry of Communication and Informatics of Indonesia (KOMINFO) as the proponent and implementing agency of the project, was also attended by representatives from the Japan Telecommunications Engineering and Consulting Service (JTEC) and the Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe presented important elements of JAIF rules and procedures and shared the visibility guidelines for JAIF projects, including the JAIF logo guide and template. He also highlighted the importance of project reporting. The meeting as a whole intended to create a better understanding of the JAIF rules and procedures pertaining to project implementation and management, and thus his presentation was well appreciated by the participants.

JAKARTA, 27 October 2022 – JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe participated in the 8th to 10th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings for the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) project, organised virtually from August to October 2022.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) hosted the meetings, which were attended by PSC members, representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), and the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA).

The meeting updated the participants on the progress and achievements made by the project, preparation for upcoming activities, and a project evaluation. JMT also participated in the discussion and provided inputs to training participation guidelines.

JAKARTA, 20 October 2022 – On 20 October 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended a virtual inception meeting of the Enhancing Capabilities of Public and Private Sector to Implement Regional Digital Agenda for CLMV Countries.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam, the IAI & NDG Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, and JMT. A presentation provided by Sayuri Kakimoto, JMT Programme Coordinator, covered JAIF rules and procedures, monitoring and evaluation, financial management, and guidelines on visibility.

The overall objective of this project is to enhance the capabilities of the government and business sectors in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV) to the regional digital agenda as well as to enforce its implementation under various work plans and agreements, including the ASEAN Work Programme on Electronic Commerce (AWPEC) 2017-2025. This project also contributes to the implementation of ECOTECH activities under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement.

VIENTIANE, 18 October 2022 – The 1st JAIF Coaching Clinic, jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT), and the ASEAN Secretariat, was held on 18 October 2022 in Vientiane, Lao PDR.

The one-day workshop was officially opened by Mr. Sitsangkhom Sisaketh, Deputy Director-General of the ASEAN Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR. Mr. Sisaketh expressed appreciation for Japan’s strong support for ASEAN’s efforts in narrowing development gaps among ASEAN Member States through capacity building especially the Lao PDR.

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

JMT Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa and Senior Programme Officer Billy Sumuan jointly delivered a presentation on JAIF Background and Handbook. Also, Mr. Jasper Belarmino Rom from the ASEAN Secretariat provided a session on the ASEAN Development Cooperation programme, followed by Mr. Phetphouthai Vongphouthai of the Permanent Mission of the Lao PDR to ASEAN, who briefed the meeting on the roles and responsibilities of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN for appraising ASEAN Development Cooperation project proposals.

The 1st JAIF Coaching Clinic was participated by about 30 officials from 18 line ministries in the Lao PDR.

JAKARTA, 4 October 2022 – A delegation from the Mission of Lao PDR to ASEAN visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) on 4 October 2022. Seven officials from various ministries of Lao PDR are posted to the Mission of Lao PDR on the four-months Attachment Officers (AOs) Programme. The purpose of the briefing was to provide the AOs with an overview of JAIF as one of the important partners for Lao PDR.

JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi welcomed the delegates and wished them a successful programme while working as an integral part of the ASEAN Secretariat. Counsellor of Lao PDR to ASEAN, Mr. Sengpraarthid Snookphone, expressed his appreciation to JMT for welcoming the AOs for the second time this year. He added that the briefing on JAIF provided the AOs with the opportunity to learn about ASEAN and Japan cooperation. JMT Programme Coordinator Miyuki Ishikawa and Senior Programme Officer Billy Sumuan jointly gave a presentation on JAIF and JMT to the delegates, followed by a Q&A session.

JAKARTA, 6 September 2022 – The seventh Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 was virtually held on 6 September 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by Indonesia, Singapore, and Viet Nam, and attended by representatives from the Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting updated the participants on the implementation of the ACE Programme Batch 7 and the outcomes of a Batch 7 evaluation. As this batch is the last batch of the project, the meeting discussed the way forward for the ACE Programme as well as the direction for a future programme. JMT conveyed a message from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN and highlighted the importance of the ACE Programme as one of the flagship projects for both ASEAN and Japan.

JAKARTA, 1 September 2022 – On 1 September 2022, two delegates from the Japan Business Machine and Information System Industries Association (JBMIA) visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) to discuss the ongoing project ASEAN Japan Partnership Program for EMC and Safety Conformity Assessment of Multimedia Equipment. The delegates also met with the Desk Officer of the ASEAN Secretariat Standard and Conformance Division (SCD) in a separate meeting.

This project aims to harmonise the conformity assessment ability of test laboratories in ASEAN Member States (AMS) by enhancing the Product Safety and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) evaluation knowledge for multimedia equipment through a series of workshops, symposiums, and technical consultations.

JMT discussed with JBMIA the planning of a workshop and symposium to be held in Indonesia in November 2022. JMT also provided technical advice based on JAIF regulations and procedures stipulated in the JAIF Handbook.

JAKARTA, 29 August 2022 – The second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of Disaster Emergency Logistic System of ASEAN (DELSA) Phase III was held at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on 29 August 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia, Myanmar, and Singapore. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Philippines, Thailand, Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), and the Mission of Japan to ASEAN. From the JAIF Management Team (JMT), Director Naoki Minamiguchi and Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe attended.

The meeting discussed supply chain management and a replenishment of stockpiles under the DELSA Phase II project and suggested recommendations and follow-up actions. In addition, the meeting updated the stakeholders on the progress of key activities and project implementation, including the financial status of the DELSA Phase III. JMT actively participated in the discussion and provided guidance on the procurement of ICT equipment under the DELSA Phase III project.

BANGKOK, 4-8 August 2022 – The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), which is the implementing agency of the JAIF-funded AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020, organised a two-day event where 21 participants of the 7th Batch of the Programme presented their project proposals. This event was then followed by the Graduation Ceremony on 8 August 2022.

The 5th and 6th Batches were concluded in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The 7th Batch, which was scheduled to be implemented in 2020, was postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike the previous batches, it was organized with a hybrid arrangement (online and onsite). A total of 21 participants from ten ASEAN Member States were graduated from the 7th Batch.

JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe attended the Graduation Ceremony with representatives from Thailand’s Department of Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation (DDPM) Office, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre, and UN partners. The Ceremony recognised outstanding project proposals which were appraised by the JMT Programme Coordinator as one of the panelists.

BANGKOK, 29 July 2022 – The third Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for 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) or ASEAN-ERAT Phase II was held in Bangkok, Thailand in July 2022.

The meeting was co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand, and attended by representatives from ASEAN Member States, Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe delivered remarks on behalf of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN and JMT.

The meeting updated the participants on the progress of the ASEAN-ERAT Phase II project, including the resource utilisation situation. In addition, the members of the ASEAN-ERAT Advisory Board provided their observations to the simulation exercise of the 13th ASEAN-ERAT Induction Course. JMT also provided inputs to the stakeholders as to improving the course by exercising different disaster scenarios.

TOKYO, 19 and 29 July 2022 – More than 100 participants of the JENESYS2022 Japan-ASEAN Alumni Online Programme joined a session on the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as they learned development cooperation between Japan and ASEAN on 19 August 2022. JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi highlighted JAIF components and priority areas for development assistance, including the principles and thematic areas addressed by the ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). Following a short video that illustrated the background and milestones of JAIF, JMT Senior Programme Officers Dea Karina Artikasih and Billy Sumuan expounded on concrete examples of JAIF projects. The presentation was then followed by a question-and-answer session.

On 29 July, nine groups of JENESYS alumni presented the findings and lessons learned from the online alumni programme. JMT Director acted as a discussant to comment on the presentations made by the groups and provided brief concluding remarks at the plenary session.

The ten-day online programme (19 through 29 July) was organised by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) and engaged high school and university students as well as JENESYS alumni who participated in previous JENESYS programmes.

JAKARTA, 28 June 2022 – Officials from the Mission of Lao PDR to ASEAN visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) Office on Tuesday, 28 June 2022. Five of these officials are posted to the Mission of Lao PDR on the four-months Attachment Officers (AO) Programme. JMT Director, Naoki Minamiguchi, welcomed the delegates and congratulated the Attachment Officers as they were about to complete their assignment in Jakarta in the first week of July.

Deputy Permanent Representative of Lao PDR to ASEAN, Mr. Sengpraarthid Snookphone, expressed his appreciation to JMT for welcoming the AOs. He added that the briefing on JAIF provided the opportunity for the AOs to learn more about Japan-ASEAN cooperation. JMT Programme Coordinator, Miyuki Ishikawa and Senior Programme Officer, Billy Sumuan provided a presentation on JAIF and JMT to the delegates, followed by a Q&A session.

JAKARTA, 27 June 2022 – The ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconstruction (ASEAN-IPR) launched the book ASEAN-IPR Research – Aceh Case: Peace Building and Post Tsunami Recovery on 27 June 2022. The research revealed how the humanitarian assistance as a result of the tsunami in Aceh in 2004 has contributed to the peace building in Aceh.

The Director General of ASEAN Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, provided a keynote speech, and other high-level officials delivered remarks. They were the Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, Deputy Secretary-General for Political-Security Community of the ASEAN Secretariat, Representative of Indonesia to the ASEAN-IPR Governing Council, and the Executive Director of ASEAN-IPR.

The hybrid launch event was concluded by a symbolic handover of the publication to the invited guests. Amongst others, JMT Director Naoki Minamiguchi received the research output. JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe also actively participated in the event, who facilitated the process of the ASEAN-IPR Research project funded by JAIF.

BANGKOK, 23 June 2022 – The 1st to 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) were held from January to June 2022. These monthly virtual meetings were attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meetings updated the participants on the progress made through the Cybersecurity Awareness Self-Learning courses provided in January-June 2022. The meetings also discussed cooperation to ensure the sustainability of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) as well as reported on Centre’s public relation activities. At one of the meetings, Zin Aung Swe, JMT Programme Coordinator, made a presentation on technical support that can be extended to AJCCBC when conducting evaluations and report preparation.

The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) project is being implemented under the collaboration between the MIC of Japan and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) of Thailand.

JAKARTA, 22 June 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) carried out an interview with Ms. Ariene G. Castillo, senior scientist, National Parks Board of Singapore, who attended two capacity building activities supported by the JAIF project Taxonomic Capacity Building to Support Market Access for Agricultural Trade in the ASEAN Region.

One of the activities was the Training on the Diagnostics of Leaf Miners of Agricultural Importance conducted by the Indonesian Institute of Science in 2016. Having passed the post-training exam, Ms. Castillo was selected to participate in a two-month Attachment Program on Diagnostic of Leaf-Miners in Japan. On-site trainings with a number of Japanese experts specialising in different topics – i.e. plant viruses, aphids and leaf miners – allowed her to learn and practice new skills.

Based on the information obtained from the interview, JMT will develop a Beneficiaries’ Voice to showcase JAIF’s achievements widely. It will be disseminated through the JAIF Website and packaged in other knowledge products as well.

TOKYO, 17 June 2022 – The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) of the Philippines organised an inception workshop of the JAIF project Strengthening Capacity Development for Local Governments in ASEAN to Tackle Microplastics Pollution through Decentralised Domestic Wastewater Management Approach.

The workshop was participated by more than 30 participants, including the representatives of NWRB, other line departments in the Philippines, local governments where a pilot project will be implemented, national focal points of the ASEAN Working Group on Water Resources Management (AWGWRM), ASEAN Secretariat, National Project Coordinator, JAIF Management Team (JMT), and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) that conducts the project as the Implementing Agency.

JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe delivered opening remarks at the beginning of the workshop. He highlighted that the success of the project is crucial as this project is to support the priority areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), notably maritime cooperation and the Goal 6: clean water and sanitation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Following the opening session, the workshop reviewed the details of the project – its framework, objectives, activities, expected outputs and outcomes, and a pilot project at local level.

JAKARTA, 10 June 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) welcomed the officials from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN (MOJ) to the first joint meeting with JMT ever organised since the JMT office was renovated in 2020. Chaired by Mr. Kodama Yoshinori, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission of MOJ, the meeting started with self-introduction of the MOJ officials and JMT members to have a better understanding of the responsibilities of each participant. The meeting also focused on how to improve coordination between the two parties and with other JAIF stakeholders with the view to strengthen JAIF project management and promote Japan-ASEAN cooperation.

After the joint meeting, the MOJ officials conducted a short tour to the new building of the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) which was inaugurated in 2019.

As the restriction on the access to ASEC is gradually lifted, it is hoped that face-to-face meetings will be organised more often to facilitate coordinated approaches to the JAIF programme and project management.

MANILA, 23 May 2022 – On 23 May 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended a virtual inception meeting of the ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) Phase 2. The primary objective of the meeting was to provide the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) of the Philippines, which is the Proponent cum Implementing Agency of the JAIF project, with a briefing on essential JAIF rules and procedures based on the latest JAIF Handbook. Other objectives were to report the accomplishments of the AMEN Project Phase 1, completed in November 2019, and to discuss the indicative work plan and deliverables of the AMEN Project Phase 2.

The meeting was attended by the key stakeholders, such as the AMEN Project Management Office, ASEAN-BAC, AMEN project consultants, and the Enterprise & Stakeholders Engagement Division of the ASEAN Secretariat.

The AMEN Project Phase 2 is designed to pursue the same goals and objectives of the first phase: i) to set up a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) system that will help MSEs access the 3Ms (i.e., Money, Market and Mentorship); ii) scale up their operations; and iii) improve their profitability and sustainability. This phase 2 project will strengthen the AMEN Mentorship Institute with enhanced modules translated in the languages of ASEAN Member States and will allow 300 MSEs in the region to be mentored via online trainings.

BANGKOK, 20 May 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened monitoring visits with representatives from the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) and the Department of Fisheries (DOF) of Thailand. Two separate hybrid meetings were organised at the SEAFDEC Secretariat in Bangkok on 20 May 2022.

The first monitoring visit meeting was attended by 14 onsite participants from the SEAFDEC Secretariat, its Training Department, and JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe. Two participants from the Inland Fisheries Resources Development and Management Department (IFRDMD) of SEAFDEC and other JMT members joined remotely from Jakarta, Indonesia. Mr. Koichi Honda, Deputy Secretary-General and Japanese Trust Fund Program Manager of SEAFDEC, delivered opening remarks followed by Dr. Worawit Wanchana, Policy and Program Coordinator, explaining about the project comprehensively. The discussion examined the effectiveness, efficiency, likely impact, and sustainability of the projects on anguillid eel resource management and the utilisation of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in aquaculture.

With the same hybrid arrangement, the second meeting was joined by three participants from the DOF’s Aquatic Animal Health Research and Development Division. The meeting allowed JMT to obtain relevant information on the project implemented by DOF.

JAKARTA, 19 May 2022 – A project inception briefing was organised virtually by the JAIF Management Team (JMT) on 19 May 2022. It was attended by approximately 20 staffers of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) that implements the newly-approved JAIF project Regional Collaborative Research and Capacity Building for Monitoring and Reduction of Marine Debris from Fisheries in Southeast Asia.

The briefing served as an opportunity for SEAFDEC to learn about essential knowledge for implementing JAIF projects. In his opening remarks, Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, highlighted the significance of the project in addressing sea-based marine debris, one of the most critical transboundary issues that call for immediate and regional actions according to the ASEAN Regional Action Plan for combating marine debris (2021-2025). The importance of the project was echoed by Mr. Koichi Honda, Deputy Secretary-General and Japanese Trust Fund Program Manager. He appreciated Japan’s long-term assistance and cooperation in the fisheries sector in the region.

A presentation provided by Miyuki Ishikawa, JMT Programme Coordinator, covered JAIF rules and procedures, monitoring and evaluation, financial management, and guidelines on visibility. Technical advice was also provided by the Food, Agriculture and Forestry Division (FAFD) of the ASEAN Secretariat.

The briefing was moderated by Mr. Isara Chanrachkij, Project Planning and Management Division of SEAFDEC.

PHUKET, 16 -19 May 2022 – The Cybercrime Conference for Law Enforcement Agencies and Partners was jointly organised by the JAIF project Association of Southeast Asian Nations Joint Operations Against Cybercrime and the Narcotics Control Board of Thailand, Royal Thai Police.

Zin Aung Swe, JAIF Management Team (JMT) Programme Coordinator, participated in the four-day conference that discussed and presented the efforts in combating cybercrime. Moreover, it also allowed vibrant interactions and coordination amongst stakeholders, including Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) from ASEAN Member States (AMS), INTERPOL, and the private sector.

Taking the opportunity of the conference, JMT shared the results of the JAIF Sectoral Review on Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crimes outlining best practices and lessons learned from JAIF projects in this sector. The participants from ASEAN Member States, Japan, and INTERPOL attended the JAIF presentation.

JAKARTA, 25 – 29 April 2022 – On 25 April 2022, four delegates from the Japan Radio Air Navigation Systems Association (JRANSA) visited the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) to discuss the ongoing project Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Implementation Plan Training in ASEAN (GIPTA). The delegates met with the Desk Officer of the ASEC Transport Division (TD). The Officer in Charge at the Mission of Japan also attended the meeting.

The GIPTA project aims to introduce GNSS to ASEAN Member States, and thereby training and equipping ASEAN counterparts with sufficient knowledge of GNSS introduction and having the needs for the system in each country duly recognized.

On 29 April 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) discussed with TD and JRANSA the planning of a seminar and a training to be held in the latter half of 2022. JMT also provided a briefing on essential JAIF regulations and procedures based on the latest JAIF Handbook.

JAKARTA, 21 April 2022 – The ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), with the support of JAIF, conducted the “Trends and Actionable Foresights for ASEAN Disaster Management” forum on 21 April 2022. This was the second forum of a series of events organised by ASEC under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platforms project funded by JAIF.

The forum was opened by H.E. Ekkaphab Phanthavong, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC). In his remarks he highlighted “ASEAN region is among the most disaster-prone regions in the world, and the pressure on disaster management in the region intensifies as recent studies show that the effects of climate change are projected to become more pronounced in years to come. Disaster management sector had to prepare for and manage disasters against the backdrop of COVID-19.” He added that the forum was a timely opportunity to learn about and contribute our views on future challenges and practical solutions facing our disaster management sector.

Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, in his opening remarks highlighted that the forum would help understand and analyse emerging trends, issues, and approaches to disaster management at global and regional levels and allow for providing evidence-based policy advice to ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and policymakers of respective Member States.

The forum was attended by about 70 participants representing relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies under the ASCC Pillar, ASEC divisions, and the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. The forum was moderated by the Research Development Institute (RDI), one of the advisors to the project.

TOKYO, 12 April 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised a refresher-briefing on JAIF rules and procedures to support the implementation of the JAIF project Strengthening Capacity Development for Local Governments in ASEAN to Tackle Microplastics Pollution through Decentralised Domestic Wastewater Management Approach.

Apart from the ASEAN Secretariat staff, the briefing was participated by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) of the Philippines, which is the Project Proponent and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) that undertakes project activities as the Implementing Agency.

The briefing provided key elements to follow when implementing JAIF projects, such as reporting requirements, procedures for budget realignments, visibility guidelines, and project monitoring.

In his opening remarks, Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, encouraged IGES to launch a “Regional Guidebook on Sustainable Decentralised Domestic Wastewater Management Towards ASEAN Resilient and Green Cities” next year as scheduled because the Year 2023 marks the 50th Year of Japan-ASEAN Friendship and Cooperation. Dr. Sevillo D. David Jr., Executive Director of the NWRB highlighted the long-standing challenges of water pollution due to inadequate and unsustainable domestic wastewater treatment and management.

A presentation made by Zin Aung Swe, JMT Programme Coordinator, facilitated the learning of the JAIF rules and procedures. The briefing was moderated by Dr. Pham Ngoc Bao, IGES Deputy Director.

JAKARTA, 18 March 2022 – As one of the activities of the JAIF project ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Research and Development Platforms, the 1st ASCC Research and Development Forum “Building Climate Change Data Management Capacities and Enhancing Access to Climate Finance” was organised by the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) on 18 March 2022. The Climate Change Platform – one of the three platforms set up by ASEC with JAIF support – is expected to inform the development of four quarterly trend reports and six bi-monthly policy briefs. The Forum was a direct input to this process and was opened by H.E. Ekkaphab Phanthavong, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community. He regarded the Forum as a timely opportunity to reflect and strategise how ASEAN can further raise its commitments to the global and regional climate agenda, given that the road towards carbon neutrality by 2050 is a daunting task and requires extensive planning and collaborative efforts within and outside ASEAN.

Following the DSG’s welcome remarks, Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the need for forging practical policy tools that may be derived from policy recommendations and allow practitioners and experts to answer climate change-related questions and fill in critical information gaps in order to better inform decision-makers. Billy Sumuan, JMT Senior Programme Officer, also attended the online forum as he coordinates with ASEC for the JAIF project.

JAKARTA, 15 March 2022 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the 16th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) on 15 March 2022. As part of its regular reporting mechanism, Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, presented the status of JAIF and its supported projects, as well as the highlights of JMT activities and achievements in 2021, including the launch of JAIF Video in July 2021. The video has since been aired through various opportunities and platforms, such as the JAIF YouTube account, JAIF Website, JAIF Knowledge Products, meetings, workshops, training sessions, and ASEAN social media platforms. During 2021, JMT further revised the JAIF Handbook to reflect the procedural updates made in the ASEAN Standard Operating Procedures for Project Appraisal and Approval and in the ASEAN Cooperation Projects Design and Management Manual. The revised version is expected to be acknowledged at the 16th AJJCC Meeting.

Moreover, JMT set forth key activities planned during 2022. While continuing its role to support the ASEAN Member States (AMS) and the ASEAN Secretariat along the project cycle, JMT will conduct preparatory work to support the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation which will fall in 2023. Among other planned activities in 2022, the AJJCC-WG was informed about launching a social media account, producing communication and knowledge products aiming to promote the 50th anniversary year, conducting JAIF Coaching Clinic in Lao PDR, updating the Compact Version of the JAIF Handbook, and developing a Strategic Plan for Communication and Outreach.

Concluding his presentation, on behalf of JMT, Mr. Minamiguchi extended his sincere appreciation to AMS representatives and Japanese government officials for their strong commitments to JAIF and support to JMT.

JAKARTA, 21 February 2022 – The 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for The Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase III Project was held virtually on 21 February 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia, Myanmar, and Singapore as the Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness and Response. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the Cabinet office of Government of Japan, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), the ASEAN Secretariat, and the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team, in addition to the Philippines and Thailand, which are the host countries of DELSA satellite warehouses.

The AHA Centre as the implementing agency for the DELSA Phase III provided secretariat support to the meeting that updated the participants on the deployment of DELSA stockpiles, warehouses, completion of the DELSA Phase II Project, and the implementation of the DELSA Phase III Project.

JAKARTA, 16 February 2022 – The 2nd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of the 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) – ASEAN-ERAT Project Phase II, was held online on 16 February 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand and attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam, the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

As the implementing agency, the AHA Centre reported the progress and planned activities. The meeting discussed the strategies to overcome current challenges in implementing the project. The first onsite training is scheduled in August 2022.

JAKARTA, 9 February 2022 – On 9 February 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT), in collaboration with the External Economic Relations Division (EERD) of the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), organised a briefing on JAIF rules and procedures to support the implementation of the Carbon Footprint of Renewable Energy for ASEAN Countries project funded by JAIF. Apart from the JMT and ASEC staff, the briefing was participated by the Thai counterparts who are engaged in the project and are currently working with the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) and the Technology and Informatics Institute for Sustainability (TIIS).

The briefing was intended to guide the partners in Thailand through essential elements and steps to follow when implementing JAIF projects, such as reporting requirements, financial-related procedures, and guidelines for visibility. Through his opening remarks, Naoki Minamiguchi, JMT Director, encouraged the Thai partners to take full advantage of the project to build their capacities and to assist all the ASEAN Member States to make evidence-based decisions and policy formulation by drawing on project’s information and data on climate change and greenhouse gases. A presentation made by Zin Aung Swe, JMT Programme Coordinator, facilitated the process of learning the JAIF rules and procedures. The briefing was moderated by Jesica Christina, Officer of EERD, and regarded useful for implementing the project, according to Dr Jitti Mungkalasiri, CEO of TIIS, who also provided opening remarks and represented the voices of other participants at the closing of the meeting.

JAKARTA, 7 February 2022 – On 7 February 2022, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) had an opportunity to attend a virtual inception meeting of the Capacity Development Program for ASEAN Rice Net. The primary objective of JMT’s participation was to provide the Implementing Agency, namely the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), with a briefing on essential rules and procedures of JAIF, which included those recently introduced by the ASEAN Secretariat. A discussion on the indicative work plan was another objective.

The briefing covered wide-ranging elements of project implementation, from monitoring to reporting, fund management, and visibility. It was attended by the entire project management team of the IRRI in charge of the project, as well as the Officer from the Food, Agriculture, and Forestry Division of the ASEAN Secretariat.

The two-year project aims to develop the capacity of scientists and researchers in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV) in implementing advanced breeding technologies and preparing national variety release planning for climate-resilient rice varieties. By the end of the project, 60 researchers in CLMV, including 30 women, are expected to be capacitated through a hybrid model of virtual and in-country training activities.

JAKARTA, 20 January 2022 – JAIF partners have increasingly been faced with unforeseen disruptions in the project implementation, some of which were caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but others were due to such factors as communication gaps between proponents and implementing agencies, and insufficient or inaccurate understanding of project management guidelines.

To reduce undue interruptions in moving forward with JAIF projects, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) has started to provide the staff of newly approved projects with a briefing on JAIF rules and procedures at the onset of project implementation. The briefing provided to the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) and IDEA Consultants, Inc. on 20 January 2022 was the first of its kind. As the lead Implementing Agency, IGES is charged with 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).

In his remarks, Naoki Minamiguchi, Director of JMT, underlined the briefing session providing “the opportunities not only for the Implementing Agency to go through the latest rules and procedures required for the implementation of the JAIF project but also for JMT to build a new network of communication that JMT can take advantage of in case of responding to the needs of the partners rapidly.” In addition to the core project members of IGES and IDEA Consultants, Inc., the briefing was attended by Billy Sumuan, JMT Senior Programme Officer, who made a presentation on important elements to implement JAIF projects, and by Yoshikazu Kihira, another Senior Programme Officer of JMT, to clarify financial management matters. Ms. Nabilla Khairunnisa Ishadi, Environment Officer, from the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) was among the participants, too. The briefing was regarded as helpful by Dr Yasuhiko Hotta, IGES Programme Director, who coordinates the JAIF-funded marine debris reduction project.

JAKARTA, 20 January 2022 – In response to a recommendation of the Sixth AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting, a special meeting was convened online on Thursday, 20 January 2022 to discuss onsite arrangements for the next phase of ACE Programme – Seventh Batch. The meeting was attended by PSC members from Indonesia, Singapore, and Viet Nam as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Global Leadership (WG on GL), as well as representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The AHA Centre, as the implementing agency for the ACE Programme 2018-2022, facilitated the meeting. The meeting reviewed the course programme and timeline which included an online phase organised from 28 July to 1 December 2021 and proposed onsite courses to be held in 2022. JMT provided inputs to the proposed arrangement on the conduct of onsite courses.

JAKARTA, 21 December 2021 – The 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication Technology System to Strengthen the Operation of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) – Phase IV was held online on 21 December 2021. The meeting was attended by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre, and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting updated the progress of the project and informed the participants that most of the project activities had already been implemented. The project will end on 31 December 2021, and the preparation of a project completion report is currently underway. The meeting welcomed a Mission of Japan’s visit to the AHA Centre to observe the completion of LCD replacement. The project is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

SINGAPORE, 16 December 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) was invited by the Programme Cooperation and Project Management Division (PCPMD) of the ASEAN Secretariat to take part in an online Proposal Writing Training. JMT explained about the procedures for proposal development as well as the supplementary information required to complete a proposal template when seeking funding from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). JAIF’s approach to project monitoring and knowledge were also shared with participants. Following the presentation by JMT, there was a lively discussion on the procedure of engaging Japanese experts in ASEAN Cooperation projects.

The training was participated by 21 government officials from Lao PDR. It was part of the Proposal Writing Training held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore which targeted Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV).

BANGKOK, 16 December 2021 – The 9th-12th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2-2) were held from October to December 2021. The virtual meetings were attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, and the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT).

The meetings reviewed the project implementation progress achieved in October-December 2021 as well as a work plan for the next year. The meetings also discussed cooperation with non-ASEAN countries to promote the Centre’s objectives and ensure the sustainability of the Centre by building on the progress achieved with Japan’s support through JAIF.

The project has been implemented under the collaboration between the MIC of Japan and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) of Thailand.  The activities continue until 31 December 2022.

JAKARTA, 9 December 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) carried out an interview with Dr. Arunee Limmanee, who attended the 2019 AICHR Regional Dialogue on the Mainstreaming of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the ASEAN Community (Gender Perspectives on Disability Rights). Dr. Limmanee shared with JMT her experience in taking part in the Dialogue held on 3-5 December 2019, which engaged participants from various ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, international organisations, and non-government organisations (NGOs), especially Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs).

As an Advisor on Education and Employment for the Association of Physically Handicapped of Thailand, Dr. Limmanee brings with her a wealth of experience in promoting cross-sectoral and cross-pillar cooperation in the area of rights of people with disabilities (PWD).

SINGAPORE, 14 October 2021 – As part of a series of Proposal Writing Training which targeted Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV), Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supported by the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), conducted an online Project Proposal Writing for Vietnamese officials on 4-15 October 2021.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) was invited to share the monitoring experience of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and explain its approach to monitoring and proposal development requirements specific to JAIF. A total of 24 Vietnamese officials from nine ministries and two government organisations participated in these two sessions to share an example from an ASEAN partner’s perspective.

JAKARTA, 7 October 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a virtual monitoring visit with Ms. Dian Wulandari, a representative from the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology of Indonesia (KOMINFO). Ms Wulandari acted as the proponent of the JAIF project Strengthen Information Security in ASEAN: Develop Regional Network Security Best Practices. She shared her experience in implementing the project with JMT.

Ms. Wulandari explained about the ministry’s involvement in the proposal formulation stage, where Indonesia was the focal point for the digital sector. The proposal was then discussed by the Telecommunications and Information Technology Senior Officials Meeting (TELSOM) and received inputs from the ASEAN Member States (AMS) to ensure its relevance at the regional level. Aimed to strengthen cloud security in ASEAN, the project contributed to the ASEAN ICT Masterplan 2020, specifically the action point 8.1.2 “Develop Regional Network Security Best Practices”. In addition, the project has proven to be relevant to the objectives of working towards enhanced connectivity and sectoral cooperation as stipulated by the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025.

JAKARTA, 28 September 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) interviewed Mr. Chuen Yang Beh as part of its outreach activities to collect stories from project beneficiaries. The junior college student teamed up with a university student and an intern to represent Singapore in the Cyber SEA Game 2020. His team won the first place after competing against other ASEAN Member States (AMS). Mr. Beh shared with JMT that his greatest takeaways from the competition were the experience working with other IT experts and creative thinking to solve the challenges.

Cyber SEA Game is one of the project activities conducted by ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) to increase the capacity of cybersecurity experts and build close cross-border relation among AMS. Based on the information gathered from the interview, JMT will develop a feature story to communicate JAIF’s contributions more widely.

JAKARTA, 28 September 2021 – The Waste and Resource Management Cluster of the Asian Institute of Technology’s Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific (AIT RRC.AP) convened a regional workshop — ASEAN Dissemination Workshop on the Substitution and the ESM of Mercury-containing Medical Measuring Devices on 28 September 2021. 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 workshop aimed to disseminate key findings and lessons learned of the project to the ASEAN Member States (AMS), share information on existing practices on ESM on mercury waste management, and discuss the next steps and way forward on the 2nd phase of the project. It was well attended by 47 participants from AMS and other international organisations. The JAIF Management Team (JMT) read out a message on behalf of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

JAKARTA, 21 September 2021 – JAIF Management Team (JMT) was invited by the ASEAN Secretariat to share the monitoring experience of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) with Project Proposal Writing that was conducted online. During the sessions, in addition to explaining the JAIF’s approach to monitoring, JMT shared the project proposal development requirements specific to JAIF. The sessions served as an example that may be applicable to the ASEAN Cooperation Programmes and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

The training was participated by approximately 20 government officials from Cambodia. It was one of a series of Project Proposal Writing Course held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore with the support of the Republic Polytechnic of Singapore and the ASEAN Secretariat. The Course targeted Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV).

JAKARTA, 8 September 2021 – The 7th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics Systems for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II: Satellite Warehouse was held on Wednesday, 8 September 2021 via video conference. The meeting was chaired jointly by Malaysia and Singapore as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness and Response. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Philippines and Thailand as the host countries of the DELSA satellite warehouses. Other PSC members namely representatives from the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), the ASEAN Secretariat, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and JAIF Management Team (JMT) also attended. The AHA Centre as the implementing agency for DELSA Phase II provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The meeting was updated on the project implementation and sustainability of DELSA. JMT provided technical advice on budget utilisation and project management.

JAKARTA, 3 September 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) carried out an interview with Mr. Atsawin Srisawat who attended the three-day training on Cyber Defense Exercise with Recurrence (CYDER) in February 2020. The training is part of capacity development activities under the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) project.

The interview allowed the officer from the National Intelligence Agency of Thailand to share his experience and views on how the training has been enhancing the cybersecurity workforce in the ASEAN region. The purpose of this interview is specifically to develop an article on the project’s contributions from the perspective of beneficiary. It is hoped that the article will help JAIF’s contributions to be known more widely by the citizens of Japan and ASEAN and other JAIF stakeholders.

JAKARTA, 13 August 2021 – The 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 was held online on 13 August 2021. The meeting was presided by Indonesia, Singapore and Viet Nam as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Global Leadership (WGGL). The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre, as the implementing agency for the ACE Programme 2018-2020, provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The proponent updated the participants on the implementation of ACE Programme 7th Batch and the course timeline. The meeting also reported the financial status. The Mission of Japan and JMT provided inputs to the discussion on the Future-Driven Strategy for Capacity Development of ASEAN Professionals in Emergency Response and the Building Resilience (FUTURESCAPES) proposal.

JAKARTA, 5 August 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a virtual meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), Viet Nam. In this particular opportunity, MIC who acted as the proponent and implementing agency of the Workshop on Sharing Experiences toward Building Smart Cities in ASEAN Community Members project shared its experience in implementing the said ASEAN-initiated project as an effort to promote Smart Cities and e-government within the region.

JMT undertook a monitoring visit to collect relevant information which aims to analyse how project-level results in specific sectors/thematic areas contributed to ASEAN integration and community building as well as to Japan-ASEAN cooperation. It provided learning opportunities especially on best practices from Viet Nam in undertaking several Smart Cities applications for transportation, e-commerce and other systems to support e-government at the national level.

JAKARTA, 5 August 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised a meeting to discuss two JAIF-supported projects, namely the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Cooperation Hub (Step 1) and the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2). The meeting was attended by representative from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Desk Officer of the ASEAN Secretariat, and Officers in Charge of the Centre. The platform offered opportunities to understand the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of JAIF-supported projects in promoting capacity and strengthening cooperation in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector within the region.

A growing number of cybersecurity attacks on public networks has been occurred, and national security issues have been recognized not only within ASEAN but also globally. Japan’s involvement in both projects proved its consistent support for strengthening cybersecurity in the region. JMT acknowledged the best practice of setting up the Project Steering Committee (PSC) that played an important role in ensuring smooth project implementation. The discussion also served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between JMT and project counterparts in Thailand.

JAKARTA, 4 August 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) invited the National Electronic Authentication Centre, Ministry of Information and Communication of Viet Nam for a virtual meeting. The Ministry acted as the proponent and implementing agency of the ongoing Study on the Framework for the Mutual Recognition of Digital Signatures in ASEAN.

The meeting discussed Japan-ASEAN collaboration in promoting Information and Communications Technology (ICT) through mutual recognition of digital signatures that can contribute to the enhancement of economic development in the region. The project’s objective adequately contributed to the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint 2025, section C.2 Information and Communication Technology as well we the ASEAN ICT Masterplan 2020, particularly strategic thrust 1 Economic Development and Transformation. Moreover, it served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between JMT and MIC of Viet Nam.

JAKARTA, 29 July 2021 – The 5th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication Technology System to Strengthen the Operation of the AHA Centre –Phase IV was held on 29 July 2021 through videoconference. The meeting was attended by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, the Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting discussed the project implementation progress and the project work plan. The meeting was informed of the procedure to follow upon project completion based on the revised Guidelines.

JAKARTA, 29 July 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of Lao PDR that served as the proponent and implementing agency of JAIF-supported project Aligning Public Policy and Regulation Framework to Promote Cloud Computing Environment. The meeting discussed relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of the project on promoting greater cooperation and supporting the implementation of the ASEAN ICT Masterplan (AIM) 2020, especially the Initiative 4.3 Support Cloud Computing Development.

The proponent attested that the project resonated with the needs of Lao PDR for digital transformation as stipulated in the National ICT Development Plan 2025. Moreover, the project proved relevant and aligned with the Revised Implementation Plan of the Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in promoting greater cooperation in the field of ICT. The discussion served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between JAIF and the stakeholders from the Ministry of Technology and Communication of Lao PDR.

JAKARTA, 29 July 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised a meeting with the School of Electrical Engineering and Informatics, Bandung Institute of Technology (STEI-ITB), Indonesia who acted as the implementing agency of JAIF-supported project Strengthen Information Security in ASEAN: Develop Regional Network Security Best Practices. The project was guided by the needs of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to strengthen information security in ASEAN by developing best practices and guidelines for regional network security. The project proved contributing to the objectives of working towards enhanced connectivity and sectoral cooperation as stipulated in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025, particularly contributing to C.2 Information and Communication Technology and ASEAN ICT Masterplan 2020 action point 8.1.2 Develop Regional Network Security Best Practices.

The meeting served as the venue to develop closer ties between JMT and the Bandung Institute of Technology. The Institute is versed in ASEAN cooperation projects and proves to have technical competency in ICT to implement related projects.

JAKARTA, 20 July 2021 – The 7th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 20 July 2021. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, the Embassy of Japan in Thailand, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT). The meeting was organised remotely through videoconference due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting reported on the progress of the project, including the online Self-Learning Course via Micro-Learning and Cybersecurity Capacity Building Workshop 2021. The Centre presented the Action Plan (July-December 2021), while JMT provided technical advice on budget utilisation for the Cyber SEA Game 2022.

JAKARTA, 30 June 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT), in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) Program Cooperation and Project Management Division (PCPMD), organised the first of two JAIF Socialisation Sessions for ASEC staff intended for the year 2021.

The Session aims to facilitate understanding on ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific as one of references for JAIF priority areas and the latest JAIF Financial Procedures. In addition, it also  intends to raise awareness on the updated Guide on Visibility of JAIF-supported Projects. A total of 61 participants were in attendance, which included 39 ASEC Desk Officers (DOs) and project staffs, 5 PCPMD officers, 4 officers from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, 2 officers from the Finance and Budget Division (FBD) and 11 JMT Officers. Despite being held online, participants were actively engaged throughout the session by raising their questions and challenges on project implementation, particularly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

NAY PYI TAW, 22 June 2021 – The 3rd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of Enhancing the Readiness of Myanmar Government Local Capacity in Providing Humanitarian Assistance to Support the Repatriation Process was held on 22 June 2021 via video-teleconference. The meeting was chaired by the Department of Disaster Management of Myanmar (DDM) and attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), the AHA Centre, and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team.

The meeting was updated on the progress of the project, financial status, and a snapshot of lessons learned from Training of Trainers conducted on 1-7 February 2021. JMT provided technical guidance on requirements of effective project implementation and completion.

JAKARTA, 9 June 2021 –  To communicate the contributions of JAIF supported project, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened interviews with the project proponent, Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Higher Education and Development (SEAMEO-RIHED) on 11 May 2021 and project beneficiaries from Svay Rieng University, Chea Sim University of Kamchaymear of Cambodia and East Yangon University of Myanmar on 9 June 2021, respectively.

The story of Support for Capacity Building of the Greater Mekong Sub-region University Consortium (GMS-UC) (Phase 1) will be shared through the Beneficiaries’ Voice of the JAIF Website.

BANGKOK, 27 May 2021 – The 5th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2021 was held on 27 May 2021 through a virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, project staff, and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The Centre provided secretariat support for the meeting.

The meeting was updated on the progress of Project Completion Report where JMT informed about the report verification process after report submission. In addition, JMT shared the JAIF logo guide to be used for Centre’s activities, such as producing training attendance certificates.

JAKARTA, 25 May 2021 –  The JAIF Management Team (JMT) participated in the iPITCH plenary session and Closing Ceremony virtually on 25 May 2021 which was a part of the Humanitarian & Emergency Logistics Innovation Expo (HELIX) 2021 hosted by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre). iPITCH is a pitching competition of innovative ideas on humanitarian logistics. Total of eight finalists presented their ideas to the judges comprised of potential sponsors or adopters of their ideas. JMT Programme Coordinator, Sayuri Kakimoto participated as one of the judges for this competition.

In the Closing Ceremony, JMT Director, Mr. Naoki Minamiguchi presented the Diamond Award to the winner, Padayon, ASEAN Institute of Management (AIM) whose idea “PADAYON Donation Matching App” was selected by the audience.

HELIX 2021 was held in a virtual format and was attended by the Mission of Japan, experts and innovators from around the world. The event is one of the project activities of The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

JAKARTA, 17 May 2021- It is with great pleasure to welcome Mr. Naoki Minamiguchi who assumed his post as the Director of the JAIF Management Team (JMT) on 17 May 2021. Mr. Minamiguchi will be overseeing management and operations of the JMT.

Mr. Minamiguchi brings with him more than 25 years of experience in programme/project management and leadership roles in international organizations across the globe. His rich experience in Southeast Asia and expertise will be tremendously helpful for JAIF and the team in particular, as JMT approaches the 15th year since its establishment.

JMT is excited to have Mr. Minamiguchi on board and looking forward to working together to further strengthen teamwork and improve JMT’s services in supporting ASEAN Community-building and integration efforts.

BANGKOK, 22 April 2021 – The 4th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2021 was held on 22 April 2021 through virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, project staff and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The Centre provided secretariat support for the meeting.

The meeting was updated on the progress of the online Self-Learning Course and courses materials translation to local languages. The Centre also introduced a new micro-learning programme called “EdApp”. JMT provided technical assistance on project implementation process.

JAKARTA, 20-22 April 2021 – The training which was held virtually on 20 – 22 April 2021 concluded the series of Capacity Building for the Operationalisation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Systems. Facilitated by the ASEAN Secretariat’s ASCC Monitoring Division, all 14 sessions were attended by targeted participants from SOCA and 15 ASCC Sectoral Bodies of Thailand. With enthusiasm to learn the basic principles of M&E system, the participants engaged actively in asking questions, conducting discussions, sharing the examples from their respective sectoral bodies, and exchanging information on the current practices in conducting the M&E for work programs relevant to the ASCC Blueprint 2025 objectives.

This time around, three members of JAIF Management Team (JMT) had the opportunity to join as participants of the training. On the second day the representatives of JMT presented a monitoring mechanism for JAIF-supported programmes/projects as an example that can be applicable to the ASEAN Cooperation Programs and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

Ultimately, it is hoped that this capacity building project will contribute to building and sustaining capabilities of ASCC staffs working with M&E of the ASCC Blueprint 2025.

JAKARTA, 9 April 2021 – JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a virtual meeting with the Representative of Thailand to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) who acted as the implementing agency of five (5) AICHR Regional Dialogues from 2015-2019, the AICHR Training Programme on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Task Force on the Mainstreaming of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the ASEAN Community. One notable output from the projects is ASEAN Enabling Masterplan 2025: Mainstreaming the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted in 2018.

JMT undertakes periodic simplified monitoring of selected JAIF-supported projects through JMT Monitoring visit. It aims to analyse how project-level results in specific sectors/thematic areas contribute to ASEAN integration and community building as well as to Japan-ASEAN cooperation. It also provides learning opportunities especially on best practices and lessons learned and at the same time, serves as venues for greater understanding about JAIF among its stakeholders.

JAKARTA, 7 April 2021 – JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the Capacity Building for the Operationalisation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Systems held virtually on 7 April 2021. Targeting Senior Officials Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) and ASCC Sectoral Bodies of the Philippines, the training attracted more than 40 participants.

JMT contributed to the training by sharing a monitoring mechanism developed for JAIF-supported projects as an example that may be applicable to the ASEAN Cooperation Programs and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners. The ASCC Monitoring Division of the ASEAN Secretariat will implement a series of trainings in ASEAN Member States to enhance capacities of relevant sectoral bodies who are tasked to operationalise the ASCC M&E System. It will also allow participants to exchange their knowledge and current practices in conducting the M&E for the implementation of work programs relevant to the ASCC Blueprint 2025 objectives.

HA NOI, 30 March 2021 – Under the framework of the ASEAN Technical Working Group on Agricultural Research and Development (ATWGARD) and the Project on Promotion of Biomass Energy for Agricultural Communities and Rural Development in ASEAN Region funded by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), Viet Nam conducted a Regional Virtual Workshop on biomass energy promotion for inclusive and sustainable agriculture development in ASEAN region on 30 March 2021. The workshop aims to (i) share global development orientations and advanced technologies of biomass energy; (ii) present the results of pilot projects focusing on the challenges and lessons learnt; and (iii) regional strategies and policy recommendations.

The workshop was attended by focal points from ATWGARD, Project Management Unit, ASEAN Secretariat and Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) Japan. Programme Coordinator of JAIF Management Team (JMT) also attended and provided short remarks at the opening ceremony of the workshop.

JAKARTA, 30 March 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with Representative of Viet Nam to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) as implementing agency (IA) of two JAIF-supported projects, namely Workshop on Effective Communication Strategies to Combat Trafficking in Persons and AICHR Workshop on Promoting Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women through Achieving the UN 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development Goals. Represented by H.E. Ambassador Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thai Yen Huong and Ms. Nguyen Ha Chau Huong from the IA side, the platform offered an opportunity to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of JAIF-supported projects in human rights, particularly in combating trafficking in persons and promoting gender equality. It also discussed Japan’s contribution to these issues within the region so far.

The meeting provided the opportunity for JMT to capture best practices and lessons learned that were withdrawn from the two workshops conducted in 2016 and 2019. Moreover, it also served as an opportunity to develop closer ties between JMT and project stakeholders.

JAKARTA, 26 March 2021 – The 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the 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) was held on Friday, 26 March 2021 by video conference.

The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia and Singapore as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness, Response and Recovery (WG-PRR). The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Philippines and Thailand as host countries of DELSA satellite warehouses, representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre as the implementing agency for ASEAN-ERAT Phase II also provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The meeting was updated the progress of ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Project Phase II, budget utilisation, connectivity of Manager and Mobile Applications. The PSC members discussed the strategies of the project implementation under the current COVID-19 situation.

JAKARTA, 26 March 2021 – The Special Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 was held on 26 March 2021, convened online. The meeting was presided by Indonesia, Singapore and Viet Nam as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Global Leadership (WG on GL). The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre as the implementing agency for the ACE Programme 2018-2020 also provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The meeting discussed the postponement of the conduct of the English Course for Disaster Management (ECDM), which is a pre-requisite course that enables participants to have a common understanding of basic disaster management concepts. The proponent presented options in response to the proposed request for postponement of ECDM and the meeting discussed the best options. JMT provided advice and support regarding the project procedures.

BANGKOK, 25 March 2021 – The 3rd Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2021 was held on 25 March 2021 through a virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated the progress of online Incident Response Test (CYDER) and MIC shared the possible cooperation between AJCCBC and other organization to conduct Online Cybersecurity Technical Training for outside ASEAN region. It was updated the implementation of the new E-learning course called Technical Skill Training Related to Incident Response using Common Trace Format (CTF). PSC members also discussed possible cooperation with the private sector in ASEAN region. JMT contributed technical guidance in preparation of audit and completion reports.

JAKARTA, 22 March 2021 – The Capacity Building training on Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Sectoral Bodies and Senior Officials Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) in Viet Nam was virtually organized on 22-24 March 2021. The training was conducted by ASCC Monitoring Division (AMD) of the ASEAN Secretariat and was attended by a total of 14 participants from ASCC Sectoral Bodies and SOCA of Viet Nam, ASCC Monitoring Division (AMD), AMD Capacity Building and Mid-Term Review Team and JAIF Management Team.

The training aims to build the skill of participants in the M&E of the ASCC Blueprint 2025 work plan and programme and to exchange information, knowledge and experience in practical applications. The training focused on the current M&E System, Implementation-Focused Monitoring System and Result-Based Monitoring System of the ASCC Blueprint 2025. JMT not only shared the JMT monitoring mechanism for projects funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as one of the examples of ASEAN Cooperation Programmes and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners, but also learned about data collection, management and processing and analysis as a participant from the training.

JAKARTA, 17 March 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the Capacity Building for the Operationalisation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Systems held virtually on 17 March 2021. Following the success of the first five trainings, the training targeted Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (SOCA) and 15 ASCC Sectoral Bodies of Myanmar.

The training aims to enhance understanding towards the basic principles of M&E system within the context of Results-Based Management (RBM) approach including operationalization of the current ASCC Blueprint 2025 M&E Framework. It also provides a platform for participants to exchange their knowledge and current practices in conducting the M&E for the implementation of work programs relevant to the ASCC Blueprint 2025 objectives.

The JMT presented a monitoring mechanism for projects funded by JAIF as one of the examples of the ASEAN Cooperation Programs and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

JAKARTA, 16 March 2021 – The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the 15th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) held virtually on 16 March 2021. As part of its regular reporting mechanism, the JMT presented the status of JAIF and JAIF-supported projects in year 2020, including JMT activities. The highlights of the JMT’s presentation were the revamp of JAIF Website, the premier of JAIF Video as means of communicating JAIF contributions to ASEAN and also the distribution of Compact Version of JAIF Handbook to JAIF stakeholders. Furthermore, the Meeting acknowledged and extended its appreciation for JMT’s proven commitment to providing quality technical assistance to JAIF projects and producing tangible outputs despite the pandemic.

JAKARTA, 10 March 2021 – The Capacity Building training on Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Sectoral Bodies and Senior Officials Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) in Malaysia was virtually organized on 10 March 2021. The training was conducted by ASCC Monitoring Division (AMD) of the ASEAN Secretariat and was attended by a total of 22 participants from 15 sectoral bodies under ASCC Community Pillars.

The training aims to build the skill of participants in the M&E of the ASCC Blueprint 2025 work plan and programme and to exchange information, knowledge and experience in practical applications. JAIF Management Team (JMT) shared the JMT monitoring mechanism to inform participants on the monitoring system for projects funded by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) as one of the examples of ASEAN Cooperation Programs and Projects funded by ASEAN Dialogue Partners.

JAKARTA, 28 February 2021 – Ms. Setsuko Miyakawa concluded her service as the Director of JAIF Management Team (JMT) on 28 February 2021.

Having assumed the post of JMT Director in November 2013, Ms. Setsuko led JMT’s successful efforts in further promoting cooperation between Japan and ASEAN. During her tenure, JMT has expanded and taken on more responsibilities to further increase the accountability of JAIF through outreach and monitoring activities. Her strong vision for fund management was seen not only through the comprehensive data management systems developed under her leadership, but also through the development of JAIF Handbook to provide JAIF stakeholders with essential information about JAIF procedures.

Her significant contribution and dedication are greatly honored. Her service for seven years with JMT will have lasting, positive effects on Japan-ASEAN cooperation for decades to come.

Ms. Setsuko’s charm, professionalism, empathy and leadership will be greatly missed by proponents, implementing agencies, staffs of ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), members of JMT and other stakeholders. She will return to Tokyo after leaving Jakarta to start the next chapter of her career.

BANGKOK, 26 February 2021 – The Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the Development of Capacity for the Substitution and the Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of Mercury-containing Medical Measuring Devices was held virtually on 26 February 2021. The meeting was attended by the representatives from Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Philippines, Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MOEF) and Ministry of Health (MOH) Indonesia, AIT RRC.AP, ASEAN Working group on Chemicals and Waste, Ministry of Environment of Japan, ASEAN Secretariat, and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting discussed progress of project implementation in terms of the situation assessment/inventory, guidelines on ESM on mercury-containing medical measuring devices, and update about the status of project activities in the Philippines.

BANGKOK, 25 February 2021 – The 2nd Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2021 was held virtually on 25 February 2021. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The PSC members were updated on the implementation of the 13th and 14th Online Cybersecurity Technical Training held on 26-29 January 2021 and 17-19 February 2021 respectively. The meeting was shared the issues encountered during the online training and PSC members discussed possible solutions. Moreover, MIC reported the progress of new e-learning course, Technical Skill Training Related to Incident Response using Common Trace Format (CTF) format. JMT provided guidance and advice for the submission of 2020 Annual Interim Report and Financial Report of the project.

JAKARTA, 19 February 2021 – The 5th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2021 was held on 19 February 2021, convened online. The meeting was presided by Indonesia, Singapore and Viet Nam as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Global Leadership (WG on GL) and also attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre, as the implementing agency for the ACE Programme 2018-2021, also provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The meeting reviewed and was updated on the project implementation and financial status. The AHA Centre presented the report on the conduct of the ACE Programme Impact Evaluation study and updated Future-Driven Strategy for Capacity Development of ASEAN Professionals in Emergency Response and in Building Resilience (FUTURESCAPES) concept note.

JAKARTA, 16 February 2021 – The 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics Systems for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II was held on Tuesday, 16 February 2021 by video conference. The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia and Singapore as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness, Response and Recovery (WG-PRR). The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Philippines and Thailand as the host countries of the DELSA satellite warehouses, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre as the implementing agency for DELSA Phase II also provided secretariat support to the meeting.

The meeting was updated on DELSA Phase II project implementation and provided an overview of the events within the Humanitarian and Emergency Logistics Expo (HELiX). The event is proposed to be conducted virtually on 20-25 May 2021. The AHA Centre also updated sustainability of DELSA as discussed with JMT.

BANGKOK, 28 January 2021 – The 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2021 was held on 28 January 2021 through a virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated the progress of the 12th Online Cybersecurity Technical Training held on 15-18 December 2020 and the preparation of Cyber SEA Game. The PSC members also discussed the new E-learning course called Technical Skill Training Related to Incident Response using Common Trace Format (CTF) format. JMT contributed technical guides in discussion of proposal of training programme for the other Japan line Ministries.

The 12th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 17 December 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated successful implementation of the 12th online cyber security technical training which was organised on 13-15 December 2020 and the Cyber SEA Game 2020 on 4 December 2020. The meeting also discussed on future plan of activities in the first quarter of 2021 to which PSC members contributed inputs and suggestions for further consideration.

The 11^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 18 November 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The PSC members were updated about the progress of the first online self-learning course which was conducted from 3-6 November 2020 and consisted of two (2) courses, namely Network Forensics and Malware Analysis. The meeting was informed of some challenges related to the procedures and system during the online training. A new proposal of possible project to follow-up ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was also discussed. JMT provided the information of approval and appraisal processes for JAIF supported scheme.

The 2^nd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of Enhancing the Readiness of Myanmar Government Local Capacity in Providing Humanitarian Assistance to Support the Repatriation Process was held on 6 November 2020 at the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) Office, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. The Meeting was chaired by DDM Myanmar and also attended virtually by representatives from the AHA Centre, ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated the progress of project implementation and financial status. The platform explored possible options to conduct training activities and extend project timeframe through a request for no-cost extension. The JMT provided technical advice on no-cost extension request during the discussion.

To communicate the contributions of JAIF supported project, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened an interview with the project beneficiaries, the Philippines Centre for Entrepreneurship (PCE or Go Negosyo) of the MSME project ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network (AMEN) implemented in 2019.

The interview is shared through the Beneficiaries’ Voice of the JAIF Website.

The extraordinary Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of ASEAN Joint Operations Against Cybercrime (AJOC) and ASEAN Cyber Capacity Development Project (ACCDP) Phase II was held on 22 October 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs Singapore, International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) Global Complex for Innovation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, and Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was organized in order to discuss the no-cost extension and budget realignment requests. The Implementation Agency also shared significant contributions of ASEAN Desk in the fight against cybercrime at operational, tactical and strategic level. It discussed continuation of project activities using virtual communication tools and platforms. The JMT participated in the meeting as the position to support the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

The 10th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2020 was held on 15 October 2020 through virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated the preparation of the first online self-learning course which would be scheduled in November 2020. The PSC members also discussed the requests of no-cost extension and budget realignment, and JMT informed a clear procedure for the approval process of the requests. The platform also discussed the online migration plan during COVID-19 Pandemic.

The 4th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the 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 project was held on 9 October 2020. The meeting was co-chaired by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Singapore and attended by representatives from Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication of Japan, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat,  the AHA Centre and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting was updated the Project Implementation Plan of the said project. The Implementing Agency, the AHA Centre, reported the achievement of project outputs and updated budget utilization. The meeting recognized challenges of providing training for ASEAN Member States on how to utilize the AHA Centre’s ICT System and the Web Emergency Operations Centre (WebEOC) Refreshment course. The platform also discussed the proposed scenarios and possible solutions. Due to COVID-19 Pandemic and travel restriction, the project required a no-cost extension and budget realignment. JMT provided the necessary procedures of said requests. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with Centre for the Study of Islam and Society (PPIM) of State Islamic University (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah as Implementing Agency (IA) of Workshop to Promote the Use of Biometric Technologies for Enhanced Security in Southeast Asia project. The platform offered opportunities to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of JAIF-supported projects in combating transnational crimes within the region.

The JMT acknowledged best practices and lessons learned that were withdrawn from the project implementation through the virtual meeting conducted on 2 October 2020. The discussion also served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between the JMT and project stakeholders.

Graduation Ceremony of twelve Attachment Officers (AOs) from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam was held virtually on 24 September 2020. During the one-year programme, 12 AOs from the 16th Batch of Junior Diplomats (APSC involvement) and the 5th Batch of AEC and ASCC involvement further developed their knowledge and understanding on regional cooperation. The ceremony was attended by over 60 participants, including H.E. Chiba Akira, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, H.E. Aladdin D. Rillo, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Economic Community, Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat staff members who served as mentors for AOs and the members of JMT.

Congratulating the graduating AOs, Ambassador Chiba highlighted the importance of the Attachment Programme as JAIF’s longest-running programme that has so far supported 100 officers from CLMV who now play a significant role in ASEAN cooperation after graduation. Words of appreciation for extensive support from the Government of Japan and JMT were shared by DSG Rillo, H.E. Ambassador Aung Myo Myint of Myanmar and various host divisions. On behalf of JMT, Director Setsuko Miyakawa wished AOs a further success in their future career and continued cooperation with JAIF.

Japan has consistently supported the Attachment Programme since 2001. The Attachment Programme continues to develop capacities of CLMV officials to participate in regional initiatives and to fulfil their regional commitments.

The 5^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II was held on 22 September 2020 through virtual meeting. The meeting was co-chaired by National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Malaysia and Singapore Civil Defense Force (SCDF). The meeting was attended by the representatives from National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Philippines, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre and JMT.

The platform was updated about the status of implementation of DELSA Phase II including deployment and activities in support of NDMO operations during Covid-19 Pandemic, sustainability of DELSA Programme, financial status and updates from Joint Committee Meetings. Moreover, it was also informed about the new concept note of Digitalisation of DELSA Satellite Warehouse Management System and upcoming Humanitarian Emergency Logistic Innovation Expo (HELIX.2021) in Hanoi, Viet Nam in 2021. JMT Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe provided the meeting with  technical assistance on the possible area of post-DELSA project activities.

As the Government of Japan is considered one of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) closest Dialogue Partners supporting ASEAN’s work in Disaster Management and is directly supporting the development of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme 2021-2025, a consultation meeting with think-tanks and academics from the region was convened on 18 September 2020 through virtual meeting.

Together with representative from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, JMT Programme Coordinator participated the meeting. The JMT provided the meeting with the information of JAIF-supported projects under current AADMER Work Programme 2015-2020. The meeting exchanged the possible areas of Japan-ASEAN cooperation and coordination in disaster management and possible improvements in the WP 2021-2025.

The 9^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 17 September 2020 through virtual meeting. The meeting was attended by the total of 13 representatives from Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JMT.

The platform was updated about the progress of project activities, online self-learning course and budget utilisation. The meeting discussed the possibility of another no-cost extension and budget realignment request. The JMT provided the meeting with technical inputs in preparation of budget realignment. The meeting was also reported the mitigation plan in consideration of current Covid-19 Pandemic situation.

The 4^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020 was held on 15 September 2020 through virtual meeting. The meeting was co-chaired by National Disaster Management Authority of Indonesia (BNPB), Singapore Civil Defense Force (SCDF) and Viet Nam Disaster Management Authority, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam. The meeting was attended by the representatives from Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the AHA Centre and JMT.

The meeting was updated about the status of implementation of ACE Programme 7^th batch in 2021, ACE programme impact evaluation and other activities. The platform also discussed on financial report and budget realignment as well as Future-Driven Strategy for Capacity Development of ASEAN Professionals in Emergency Response and in Building Resilience (FUTURESCAPES) proposal. The JMT provided the meeting with inputs of JAIF guidelines and procedure during the discussion of 7^th batch implementation options.

The 8^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2020 was held on 20 August 2020. The meeting was attended by the total of 15 PSC members from Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JMT.

The meeting updated the unbalance in the number of participants between government officers and Critical Information and Infrastructure (CII) Operator and provided suggestions. The meeting was reported of the progress of AJCCBC online self-learning course and suggested several options to increase enrollment. The JMT provided technical support in offering view on the second no-cost extension request and budget realignment request to cover the operational cost. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference due to Covid-19 Pandemic.

To maximize the benefits of the Attachment Programme at the ASEAN Secretariat, the 12 Attachment Officers (AO) from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV) ― the 16th Batch of Junior Diplomats (APSC involvement) and the 5^th Batch of AEC and ASCC involvement ― initiated a series of practical learning sessions with the assistance from the IAI-NDG Division.

Training on Project Development for AOs was one of such learning sessions organized on 18 – 19 August 2020 in Jakarta, Indonesia (partially virtually). Five (5) members of JMT as resource persons provided practical knowledge on project management from the development to evaluation stages through lectures as well as practical group exercises.

At the opening remarks, JMT Director Setsuko Miyakawa commended on AO’s professionalism and commitment to making the best use of the learning opportunities during the AO Programme despite the difficult times during the pandemic period. PCPMD of the ASEAN Secretariat also provided lectures on project cycle and the guidelines on implementation.

Japan has consistently supported the Attachment Programme since 2001. To-date, it has a total of 88 graduates from 15 Batches for Junior Diplomats (APSC Involvement) and 4 Batches for AEC and ASCC Involvement. The Attachment Programme continues to develop capacities of CLMV officials to participate in regional initiatives and to fulfil their regional commitments.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with Mr. Romeo Jr. Abad Arca, Head of Community Relations Division (CRD) of ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) as the representative of proponent and implementing agency of three (3) projects implemented under CRD during 2011-2015. The platform offered opportunities to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of JAIF-supported projects in support of Information sector.

The JMT acknowledged best practices and lesson learned that were withdrawn from the project implementation through the virtual meeting conducted on 11 August 2020. The discussion also served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between ASEC and JMT.

The 7^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) in 2020 was held on 16 July 2020. The meeting was attended by the total of 16 PSC members from representatives from Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JMT.

The meeting shared outcome discussions of ASEAN Digital Senior Officials’ Meeting- ASEAN Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (ADGSOM-ATRC) Joint Working Group meeting with Japan that was held on 3 July 2020. In relation to the ongoing pandemic of Covid-19, the meeting discussed the possibility of a delay in project implementation as well as its mitigation plan. The meeting also explored the alternative option to migrate from physical training to online course platform and the requirement of technical support from MIC/NICT Japan. The JMT provided the meeting with technical support in offering views on change in activities and budget utilisation. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference due to Covid-19 Pandemic.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised meeting with People’s Television Network (PTV-4), Philippines as proponent and NHK International, Inc. as implementing agency (IA) of project titled Capacity Building of ASEAN TV Broadcasters through Documentary Program Production on ASEAN-Japan Cooperation. The platform offered opportunities to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of JAIF-supported projects in support of Information. The meeting further discussed about Japan-ASEAN collaboration to promote tourism and investment in the region through documentaries production.

JMT acknowledged best practices and lessons learned that were withdrawn from the project implementation through the virtual meeting conducted on 30 June 2020. The discussion also served as an opportunity to enable closer ties between JMT and project stakeholders.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with five (5) representatives from ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) and Philippine Centre for Entrepreneurship (PCE) of project titled ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurship Network (AMEN). PCE is Philippines’ subsidiary body for ASEAN-BAC. Due to travel restriction, the monitoring interview was conducted remotely over video conference on 29 June 2020. During the meeting, the ASEAN-BAC that was the proponent-cum-IA of project as well as PCE explained the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of JAIF-supported project in assisting of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The meeting informed about the success of project which was implemented in 2019 including development of 10 entrepreneurship modules, 48 certified mentors and pilot run in four (4) ASEAN Member States (AMS). Moreover, it also enabled closer ties between JMT and ASEAN-BAC as well as PCE.

The 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 18 June 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JMT.

The meeting was reported the readiness of online self-learning course on cybersecurity for ASEAN Member States (AMS) as well as the possible cooperation with third countries for further training or workshops. JMT provided technical support for the second tranche fund disbursement. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference due to Covid-19 Pandemic.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised a meeting with proponent and implementing agency in the Philippines. More than 10 representatives, including members from JMT participated in the monitoring visit conducted remotely through video conference on 3 June 2020. The platform offered opportunities to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of JAIF-supported projects in support of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The meeting further discussed about its endeavour to promote SMEs within the ASEAN region through internship program and network.

JMT acknowledged the best practices and lesson learned that were withdrawn from the project implementation. The discussion also served as an opportunity to enable closer ties with JAIF stakeholders as the team met with representatives from Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of SME Development (DTI-BSMED) as well as University of the Philippines Institute for Small Scale Industries (UP ISSI).

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) convened a meeting with Mr. Rommel Gavieta as implementing agency (IA) of project titled ‘Formulation of Case/Industry Studies to Develop ASEAN Benchmarks and Baselines for SMEs within ASEAN in Three Identified ASEAN Priority Sectors’ for the purpose of JMT Monitoring Visit. Due to travel restriction, the interview was conducted remotely over video conference on 26 May 2020. During the one-hour meeting, the IA explained the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of JAIF-supported projects in support of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The meeting was informed about the collaboration amongst ASEAN Member States (AMS) and Japan to promote SMEs within the region through the project implementation. Moreover, it also enabled closer ties between DLSU and JMT.

The 5^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the JAIF supported project on ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 14 May 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN and JMT.

The meeting provided implementation updates during work-from-home arrangement since March 2020, the establishment of online self-learning course and wider cooperation with third countries. JMT provided technical support in request of project no-cost extension and budget realignment of the project. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference due to current Covid-19 Pandemic.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised a meeting with proponent and implementing agencies in the Philippines for the purpose of JMT Monitoring Visit. Due to Covid-19 Pandemic that restrict travels, the interview were conducted remotely over video conference on 5 May 2020. The meeting was convened to understand relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and likely impact of JAIF-supported projects in support of Information.

The meeting provided the opportunity for JMT to capture lesson learned and good practices of the two (2) projects. It also enabled to form closer network with representatives from Philippine Information Agency (PIA), People’s Television Network (PTV-4) as well as Culture and Information Division of ASEAN Secretariat.

The 4^th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the JAIF supported project on ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (Step 2) was held on 16 April 2020. The meeting was attended by representatives from Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Embassy of Japan in Thailand, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat and JMT.

The meeting discussed the establishment of online self-learning course and wider cooperation with third countries. JMT provided technical support in view of reporting requirement and fund disbursement of project. The meeting was organised remotely through video conference due to current Covid-19 Pandemic.

The 3rd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the “Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication (ICT) System to Strengthen the Operation of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (the AHA Centre)- Phase IV” was held on 13 March 2020 at the AHA Centre’s office in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Meeting was chaired by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) as the Lead Shepherd Country and attended by delegates from Mission of Japan to ASEAN, JAIF Management Team (JMT), the Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Division (DMHA) of the ASEAN Secretariat and the AHA Centre.

The meeting provided updates on the Project Implementation of ICT Phase IV and discussed budget realignment along with no-cost extension request until 28 February 2021. JMT provided technical assistance during the PSC meeting.

The 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of “Enhancing the Readiness of Myanmar Government Local Capacity in Providing Humanitarian Assistance to Support the Repatriation Process” was held on 4 March 2020 at the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) Office, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar.

The Meeting was chaired by Myanmar, attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), the AHA Centre and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team. The newly-recruited National Project Manager also joined the said meeting. The AHA Centre provided secretariat support to the meeting through the Project funded by JAIF.

JMT provided the technical support to the meeting.

As part of its regular reporting mechanism, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the 14th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) on 26 February 2020 at the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) where JMT presented the status of JAIF and its supported projects in year 2019, including JMT activities. The highlights of the JMT’s presentation were the revision to the JAIF Handbook and the development of Compact Version of JAIF Handbook (which later obtained acknowledgement from the AJJCC Meeting on 11 March 2020). Furthermore, the Meeting extended its appreciation to JAIF for the additional contribution of JAIF2.0 and noted JMT’s effort to strengthening the visibility of Japan-ASEAN Cooperation through the revision on JAIF logo and requesting JAIF stakeholders’ initiative in communicating contributions of JAIF in the form of publicity.

The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) hosted the Project Planning Meeting for the new JAIF-supported project, “Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia” on 3 February 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand. The project is a follow-up to a follow-up project to “Enhancing Sustainable Utilization and Management Scheme of Tropical Anguillid Eel Resources in Southeast Asia”, which was successfully implemented SEAFDEC from JAIF from 2017 to 2019 with the support from JAIF.

The meeting was attended by 28 participants, including the representatives from AMS, consultants and the technical staff of the SEAFDEC Secretariat.

Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT) was invited to share the information on the JAIF procedures and requirements useful for the project stakeholders.

The Chair expressed its appreciation for Japan’s cooperation in the fisheries sector through JAIF and for JMT’s close support to the SEAFDEC.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT), in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) Program Cooperation and Project Management Division (PCPMD), organized the second of two (2) JAIF Socialization Sessions for ASEC staff intended for the year 2019. The Socialization Session aims to facilitate understanding of the updated JAIF Handbook acknowledged by the 13th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee (AJJCC) Meeting on 14 March 2019. The first Socialization Session was conducted on 16 May 2019. While covering the same contents, the second one was particularly meant for those ASEC staff who were not able to attend the first Socialization Session, notably those new to the ASEC.

A total of 34 participants were in attendance, which included 15 ASEC Desk Officers (DOs), five (5) Attachment Officers (AO), three (3) PCPMD officers, two (2) officers from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and nine (9) JMT officers.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised meetings with proponents, implementing agencies, and project beneficiaries from Viet Nam as part of its monitoring and outreach activities to understand the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and likely impact of JAIF supported projects in support of counter-terrorism, information, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The visits also allowed JMT to gather lessons learned and good practices from the project implementation.

To communicate the contributions of JAIF supported projects, JMT also interviewed beneficiaries of the MSME project ASEAN Training Course to Build and Enhance Export Capacities for SMEs implemented in 2017.

Overall, the visits enabled closer ties with JAIF stakeholders as the team met representatives from Vietnam Television (VTV), Ministry of Industry and Trade, Viet Nam, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, and Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) had the pleasure of welcoming officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan. Director Mondo Yamamoto and his team visited the JMT on 17 October 2019 at the ASEAN Secretariat.

Mr. Yamamoto received a briefing from the JMT Director about the current status of the JAIF and the roles of the JMT. The officials appreciated the information as well as the work of JMT. Mr. Yamamoto expressed his interest to visit the JMT again for continued discussion.

The Regional Policy Division oversees Japan’s support to ASEAN through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

H.E. Ambassador Akira Chiba, the new Ambassador of Japan to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), visited the JAIF Management Team (JMT) on 7 October 2019 at the ASEAN Secretariat.

The JMT Director welcomed the Ambassador and briefed him on the current status of the JAIF and the roles of the JMT. Ambassador Chiba also met the rest of the JMT officers and noted the team’s important role in the JAIF operations since its establishment in 2011. He encouraged the team to further cooperate with JAIF stakeholders, including the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, for the JAIF’s effective and efficient utilization.

Ambassador Chiba is the fifth Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN since Japan established its Mission to ASEAN in 2011. For his further background, please refer to the Mission of Japan to ASEAN’s webpage here.

The Opening Ceremony of the IAI Attachment Programme at the ASEAN Secretariat (2019-2020) was held on Friday, 4 October 2019 at the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC).

Supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) for more than a decade, the one-year programme aims to assist Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam in meeting ASEAN regional commitments and furthering equal benefits from the region’s integration through the attachment of 12 young diplomats and government officials to the relevant divisions at the ASEC.

In her welcome remarks, Ms. Hikariko Ono, Minister, Deputy Chief of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, stated that the Attachment Programme is one of the most successful projects among many projects Japan has supported through the JAIF and expressed her expectation for the success of this year’s programme.

Attendees included H.E. Aladdin D. Rillo, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Economic Community, Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, Director for Sectoral Development Directorate Tran Dong Phuong, and JMT.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) met proponents, implementing agencies, and project beneficiaries from Lao PDR as part of its monitoring activities to help collect relevant information to support the analysis of the overall effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance of JAIF supported projects on environment, information, and counter-terrorism.

The JMT also took the opportunity to interview project beneficiaries and sought the latter’s insights on the projects’ contributions, specifically on the sectors of environment and information. The JMT visited the following ministry and organizations in Lao PDR on 3-4 October 2019: Nam Ha National Protected Area in Luang Namtha Province, Lao National Television (LNTV), and the Ministry of Public Security in Vientiane.

The 5th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of the “ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Project – Phase I” was held on 24 September 2019 at the Civil Defence Academy, Singapore Civil Defence Force, Singapore. It was co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand, and attended by representatives from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Viet Nam, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and the JAIF Management Team (JMT). Representatives from the Philippines and the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) also joined the meeting through video teleconference.

In the meeting, the JMT provided technical inputs on financial reporting and discussion on the formulation for the expected Phase II of the ASEAN-ERAT Project.

The ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR) convened a seminar on the outcome of the research project titled “Lessons Learned from a Process of Conflict Resolution between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) as Mediated by Indonesia, 1993-1996.” The research project was initiated by the ASEAN-IPR – Indonesia and carried out jointly by a team of researchers from Indonesia and the Philippines with the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

The opening ceremony of the seminar commenced with welcome remarks by H.E. Rezlan Ishar Jenie, Executive Director of the ASEAN-IPR. It was also attended by approximately 100 participants and dignitaries namely H.E. Retno L.P. Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, H. E. Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) of ASEAN for Political-Security Community, and H.E. Noel Servigon, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to ASEAN who delivered remarks. The JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director also read out the message on behalf of Mme. Hikariko Ono, Charge d’Affairs ad interim, the Mission of Japan to ASEAN.

The 2nd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the “AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme 2018-2020” was held on 12 September 2019 in Hanoi. It was co-chaired by Singapore, Indonesia, and Viet Nam, and attended by the AHA Centre and the ASEAN Secretariat. The following day, 13 September 2019, the open session of the 6th Meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Knowledge and Innovation Management (WG-KIM) was held, also in Hanoi. It was attended by representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Viet Nam. Moreover, representatives from the ASEAN-Korea Programme Management Team (AKPMT), Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC), United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOHCA), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT) presented in the said meeting while the Pacific Disaster Center (PDC) joined remotely through Skype.

The JMT presented on JAIF as well as provided technical assistance to both meetings.

Responding to a request from the JCCI, Singapore, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director contributed the article titled “ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN) under Singapore Chairmanship Initiative and the Support of JAIF for ASCN” as part of the JCCI’s monthly magazine “Geppo” (September 2019 issue).

The article is prepared in Japanese and covers the ASCN, which has been initiated under the Singapore Chairmanship in 2018. Similarly, JAIF currently supports an on-going project on ASCN with the title “Promotion of ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN) by Commencing a High-Level Meeting.”

The 4th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the “Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II: Satellite Warehouse” was organised on 27 August 2019 at the Grand Millennium Hotel, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia and Singapore and attended by representatives from the Japan Mission to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), and the JAIF Management Team (JMT). The meeting was updated on the project implementation and upcoming activities, budget realignment, and plan for the next phase. The JMT extended technical assistance to the meeting.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised meetings with proponents from Myanmar as part of its monitoring visits to gather information to understand the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and likely impact of JAIF supported projects in support of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI). The JMT met four representatives from the Department of Planning, Ministry of Agriculture and three representatives from the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration, Ministry of Planning and Finance. The visits also enabled closer ties with JAIF proponents and provided the sharing of lessons and good practices from the project implementation.

The training aims to enhance the skills of officers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV) in project cycle management as well as in developing ASEAN Cooperation Projects. It was jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, Permanent Mission of Myanmar to ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, the JAIF Management Team (JMT), and the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) of the Philippines. The JMT presented an overview of JAIF, including its financial disbursement and reporting systems. The three-day training was participated by 56 participants from various ministries of CLMV.

The training was designed to support the implementation of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan III and was supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund.

The second Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the “Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication System to Strengthen the Operation of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) – Phase IV” was held on 19 July 2019 at the AHA Centre’s office in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Meeting was chaired by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) as the Lead Shepherd Country and attended by representatives from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, JAIF Management Team (JMT), the Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (DMHA) Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, and the AHA Centre.

The meeting was updated on the project implementation plan of ICT Phase IV and the development of the ICT Roadmap, to serve as guidelines for ICT infrastructure and solutions for the AHA Centre and its network with the ASEAN Member States for 2025 and beyond.

JAIF Management Team (JMT) met with representatives from the Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC), Brunei Darussalam and Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) as JMT continues its efforts to collect relevant information on transnational crimes (TC)-related projects. The team took the opportunity to meet both proponent and implementing agency before their final coordination meeting in Jakarta.

The meeting provided insights on the overall effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and relevance of TC projects supported by JAIF and how project-level outputs contribute to the overall goals of ASEAN integration and community building and enhancing ASEAN-Japan cooperation.

On 16 July 2019, five delegates from NTT DATA, Japan, visited the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) to discuss the on-going ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) project with the Culture and Information Division (CID). ACHDA project aims to raise ASEAN awareness and ASEAN identity through supporting the AMSs’ effort in digitising their cultural heritage collections and promoting public access to digitised archive of AMSs. Proposed by the CID with support from the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting for Culture and Arts (SOMCA), the two-year project is being implemented by NTT DATA since June 2018.

After welcome remarks by CID’s Assistant Director Mr. Tan Ghee Thong, Mr. Motoo Kotera Vice President and Head of Social Innovation Division, Social Infrastructure Solution Sector of NTT Data, thanked CID for its assistance in project management and provided updates. Mr. Kotera reported that both digitization and ACHDA website development is almost complete. The results of the project will be reported at the SOMCA + Japan meeting in Yogyakarta in September 2019 as well as the concluding forum of the project scheduled at the end of 2019.

Both parties highlighted the importance of promotion of the project’s outputs, i.e. ACHDA website and its contents, and thus agreed to discuss further the plans for effective promotion toward the planned website launch to the general public in the 4th quarter of 2019.

JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the meeting as well as the discussion with CID and NTTDATA on promotion activities and future plans on the following day.

To communicate the contributions of JAIF supported projects, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) carried out an interview with one of the beneficiaries of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) flagship programme: Attachment Programme at the ASEAN Secretariat for Officials from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam, as part of its outreach activities.

H.E. Ambassador Ekkaphab Phanthavong, Permanent Representative of Lao PDR to ASEAN, was part of the 8th batch of the Attachment Programme. The visit allowed the Ambassador to share his experience and views on how the Attachment Programme has been contributing to the human capacity building of Lao PDR and the ASEAN region. The interview is shared through the Beneficiaries’ Voice of the JAIF Website.

JAIF has a long stated commitment to combat transnational crimes (TC) in particular counter-terrorism. With more than 50 TC-related projects across the ASEAN region, various ministries in Singapore have been implementing 10 of them. As part of its monitoring activities, JAIF Management Team (JMT) visited Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore to collect relevant information and analyse their overall effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and relevance.

The team met with representatives from International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) Global Complex for Innovation and agencies under Ministry of Home Affairs such as Singapore Police Force (SPF), Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Home Team Academy (HTA), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), International Cooperation and Partnership Division (ICPD).

The JAIF Management Team (JMT), in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat’s Program Cooperation and Project Management Division (PCPMD), organized the JAIF Socialization Session for ASEC Staff to facilitate understanding of the updated JAIF Handbook acknowledged by the 13th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee (AJJCC) Meeting on 14 March 2019. The updated JAIF Handbook was circulated among ASEC staff by PCPMD via e-mail on 19 March 2019 for reference and usage of respective JAIF stakeholders.

This was the first of two sessions intended for the year 2019. A total of 53 participants attended the session, which included 39 ASEC desk officers (DOs), 3 PCPMD officers, 1 officer from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and 10 JMT officers.

The ASEAN Technical Working Group on Agriculture Research and Development (ATWGARD) organized the 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of the project “Promotion of Biomass Energy for Agriculture Communities and Rural Development in ASEAN Region” on 14 May 2019 at Adonis Hotel, Hanoi, Viet Nam. The JAIF Management Team (JMT) participated in the PSC Meeting and also pre-coordination meeting on 13 May 2019. The PSC appreciated the information shared in the JMT presentation regarding the important elements and procedures for implementation of JAIF supported projects.

The open session of the 34th ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Meeting was organized on 25 April 2019 in Mandalay, Myanmar. China, Japan, and Republic of Korea have been supporting projects under the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme. The ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) has taken the initiative, according to Article 21 of the Conference of Parties to the AADMER, to establish the ACDM Plus Three cooperation and ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management (AMMDM) Plus Three cooperation.

In view of the above, based on the request from Japan, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) participated in the meeting, along with officials from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, provided information on JAIF programmes/projects supporting the AADMER Work Programme, and exchanged views on ways forward regarding the implementation of the AADMER Work Programme.

The 4th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the “ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Project” was held on 16 April 2019 at D’ Anggerek Hotel, Brunei Darussalam. The PSC Meeting was co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand, and attended by representatives from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Viet Nam, and Mission of Japan to ASEAN, ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The AHA Centre provided secretariat support to the meeting as the project’s proponent and implementing agency. The JMT extended technical support to the meeting and also project proponent.

In partnership with the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), JAIF’s consistent support to ASEAN on disaster management is demonstrated through the following AHA Centre’s flagship programmes: Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA), AHA Centre Executive (ACE) Programme, and ASEAN-Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT) Transformation Project. In addition, support has also been extended for the Establishment of an Integrated Information and Communication Technology System to Strengthen the Operation of the AHA Centre.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) met with the project management teams of these four flagship programmes as part of its monitoring activities. The visit allowed the AHA Centre to share comprehensive information about the contributions of JAIF supported projects on disaster management, including best practices and lessons learned from implementing them.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the 13th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) at the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) on 8 March 2019. The Meeting endorsed to the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee the Revised Guidelines for the JAIF for its possible adoption and the Revised JAIF Handbook for its possible acknowledgment at its 13th Meeting scheduled to be held on 14 March 2019. (Later on, the adoption and acknowledgement were made at the AJJCC Meeting on 14 March 2019.) Further and as part of its regular reporting mechanism, the JMT presented the status of JAIF and its supported projects in year 2018, including JMT activities. The Meeting noted the importance of JAIF Handbook’s dissemination once adopted and appreciated joint effort by ASEC and JMT. It also appreciated the comprehensive reporting of JAIF status.

The third Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for The Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse project was held on 19 February 2019 in Singapore. Malaysia and Singapore co-chaired the meeting as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness and Response. The Meeting was also attended by Thailand and the Philippines as host countries of the two satellite warehouses. In addition, the meeting was attended by PSC members namely representatives from The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (the AHA Centre), ASEAN Secretariat, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

Following its approved implementation arrangement, the project Disaster Risk Reduction by Integrating Climate Change Projection into Flood and Landslide Risk Assessment held its first Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting on 6 February 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand. As the project’s implementing agency, the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) provided secretariat support for the meeting.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) participated at the meeting to provide the required technical inputs and clarifications for a JAIF supported project. The meeting provided updates on the project’s progress, including decisions that required approval from the PSC.

The project Capacity Building for the Operationalisation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Systems aims to address knowledge gaps and build capacity in the area of M&E especially in relation to the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint 2025. As part of the project’s activities, the ASEAN Secretariat as the project’s proponent, organized the first training on 29-31 January 2019 in Ha Noi, Viet Nam. Participants included focal persons from the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM), ASEAN Senior Officials on the Environment (ASOEN), Committee under the Conference of Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (COM to AATHP), Senior Labour Officials Meeting (SLOM), Senior Officials Meeting on ASEAN Cooperation on Civil Service Matter (SOM-ACCSM), and Senior Officials’ Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (SOCA).

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) participated as one of the resource persons for the training and also took part in panel discussions.

The 11th ASEAN-Japan Counter-Terrorism (AJCT) Dialogue aimed to exchange experiences, views, and ideas as well as best practices on counter-terrorism among the ASEAN Member States and Japan. As a project supported through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), the JAIF Management Team (JMT) was requested to attend the Dialogue on 21-22 January 2019 at Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.

JMT made a presentation on important elements for implementation of JAIF supported projects, with special focus on JAIF procedures. The presentation focused on three areas: fund management, visibility, and reporting.

The 7th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) (Step 2) was held on 12 December 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Meeting was chaired by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) Thailand and attended by representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), Embassy of Japan in Thailand, and JAIF Management Team (JMT). Representative from the Mission of Japan to ASEAN participated remotely.

The meeting reported on the progress of the project implementation and the JMT provided technical assistance to the meeting.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) organised meetings with proponents and implementing agencies from Thailand as part of its monitoring activities to collect relevant information on JAIF supported projects in support of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the information sector and to analyse their overall effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and relevance. The team met with 12 representatives from the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology, Kenan Institute Asia, AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC) Secretariat, PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting (Thailand) Ltd., and The Government Public Relations Department (PRD). The visit also allowed the proponents and implementing agencies to share comprehensive information about the contributions of JAIF supported projects on MSME and information, including best practices and lessons learned.

The 2018 AICHR Regional Dialogue on the Mainstreaming of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the ASEAN Community (Accessibility through Universal Design) was held in Bangkok, Thailand on 3-5 December 2018. In addition to discussing the accessibility through Universal Design, the meeting celebrated the launch of the ASEAN Enabling Masterplan 2025: Mainstreaming the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was adopted by the 33rd ASEAN Summit in Singapore in November 2018. The opening session for the launch of the Masterplan was graced by H.E. Kazuo Sunaga, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, along with H.E. Gen. Anantaporn Kanjanarat, Minister of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand, H.E. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), and H.E. Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community.

The meeting was attended by more than 100 participants, including representatives from the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC), Senior Officials Meeting on Social Welfare and Development (SOMSWD), ASEAN Senior Law Officials Meeting (ASLOM), Disabled People’s Organisations (DPO), and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The first Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the “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” was held on 14 November 2018 at the AHA Centre. Representatives from Singapore, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, JAIF Management Team (JMT), and the AHA Centre attended the meeting onsite. Joining via teleconference was the representative from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan. The meeting was chaired by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), as the proponent and lead country of the ICT project. JMT provided technical assistance to the meeting.

The project Policy Dialogue and Network Building of Multi-stakeholders on Wastewater Management in ASEAN Countries held its kick-off meeting, which was co-organised by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing of Indonesia (PUPR) and National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) Japan. It was attended by officials from the PUPR, NIES, Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

The meeting briefed the participants on the background, objectives, and the implementation structure of the project. JMT presented on the Important Elements for Project Implementation under JAIF Supporting Scheme.

The delegates from the Japan Productivity Center (JPC) headed by Management Director, Mr. Yukihiro Okawa, paid courtesy call to the Permanent Representative of Myanmar to ASEAN, H.E Ambassador Min Lwin on the afternoon of 4 October 2018 at the office of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to ASEAN. The JPC has been taking the role of implementing agency for the JAIF supported project on Capacity Building of Industrial Human Resource Development Organization for Productivity Improvement in Myanmar, which is currently implementing activities under Phase II. The delegates reported the achievements of the project’s Phase I as well as the latest progress of Phase II. Noting the willingness of Mr. Okawa to enhance the awareness and visibility of ongoing efforts on productivity in Myanmar, Ambassador Min Lwin provided practical advice on effectively utilizing influential networks and also offered his support when deemed necessary. As part of the project’s important milestone, the establishment of the MPC is expected in early 2019, the delegates were advised to invite high level dignitaries in the event in order to enhance its effectiveness. Mr. Okawa appreciated the valuable advice of Ambassador Min Lwin and expressed his wish to work closely with relevant stakeholders from Myanmar.

The courtesy visit was attended by First Secretary Naoto Okura, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and two staff members of the JAIF Management Team (JMT), Director Setsuko Miyakawa and Programme Coordinator Zin Aung Swe.

The second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the project “Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse” was held on 24 August 2018 in Camp Aguinaldo, Manila, Philippines. Malaysia and Singapore, as co-chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness and Response, co-chaired the meeting.

Thailand and the Philippines, as the host countries of the satellite warehouses, also attended the meeting along with the PSC members namely representatives from The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (The AHA Centre), ASEAN Secretariat, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team.

After the meeting, the PSC members visited the satellite warehouse in Camp Aguinaldo, Manila.

The third Project Steering Committee Meeting (PSC) for the “ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Project” was held on 9 August 2018 at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Vientiane, Lao PDR. The project is part of the ASEAN-ERAT Transformation Plan (2015-2020), which focuses on strengthening the ASEAN-Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ERAT) system.

The ASEAN-ERAT Advisory Group, co-chaired by Singapore and Thailand, and representatives from Cambodia, Malaysia, and Viet Nam attended the meeting, along with PSC members from The ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (The AHA Centre), ASEAN Secretariat, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team.

After the meeting, the co-chairs invited the PSC to observe the Pilot Advance Course on Information Management, which was conducted in the same venue.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) visited proponents and implementing agencies from Indonesia as part of its monitoring activities to help collect relevant information to support the analysis of the overall effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance of JAIF supported projects in support of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The team met with representatives from the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs and Bank Indonesia. The visit also provided JMT with further information about the contributions of JAIF supported projects on MSME, including best practices and lessons learned from implementing them.

As part of its regular reporting mechanism, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) attended the 12th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee Working Group (AJJCC-WG) at the ASEAN Secretariat on 2 July 2018. The JMT reported on the progress of the JAIF and its supported projects in year 2017, including JMT activities. One of the highlights of the JMT’s presentation was the revision to the JAIF Handbook and its supplementary documents namely Financial Supplemental Document (FSD) and Integrated Project Management Approach (IPMA): Guidelines for Proponents. The Meeting appreciated the comprehensive reporting and also noted the effort of strengthening JAIF visibility through further enhancement of the developed JAIF website.

The second coordination meeting for the project “Technical Assistance for Development of the SOMTC-Japan Work Plan for Cooperation to Combat Terrorism and Transnational Crime (2018-2022)” was held on 24 May 2018 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Tokyo, Japan. Representatives from the Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Brunei, Officials from International Safety and Security Cooperation Division, MOFA Japan, and Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) attended the meeting. The JAIF Management Team (JMT) also joined the meeting to provide inputs and clarifications on project implementation and budget utilisation. The CSIS, as the project’s implementing agency, presented the summary of draft work plan and outcomes of the meeting with Lead Shepherd countries.

The 4th Meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Knowledge and Innovation Management (WG-KIM) was held on 14-15 May 2018 at Thang Loi Hotel, Hanoi, Viet Nam. The meeting consisted of closed and open sessions. In view of the project work plans and updates on appraisal process, the Co-chairs of the ACDM WG-KIM, Singapore, Indonesia and Viet Nam, approved the participation of a representative from the JAIF Management Team (JMT) to participate as an observer, in particular under the agenda items on updates on plans for ICT Phase IV and updates on the ACE Programme. Discussions were held during the meeting’s closed session on 14 May 2018.

The WG-KIM extended the invitation for the open session the following day with partners who have projects under the purview of the WG-KIM. During the said open session, possible cooperation with partners for the implementation of Priority Programme 8 (LEAD) under the AADMER Work Programme 2016-2020 was explored, among others.

The Department of Fisheries, Thailand hosted the 10th Meeting of ASEAN Fisheries Consultative Forum (AFCF) on 7 – 8 May 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting was held back to back with the 26th Meeting of ASEAN Sectoral Working Group on Fisheries (ASWGFi).

While the ASWGFi is a closed meeting to discuss policy matters, the AFCF, as a technical consultation group, is open to partners including international and regional organizations. The latter was attended by 44 participants from ASEAN Member States and partners from international organizations.

Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) Management Team (JMT) was invited to the 10th Meeting of AFCF to share information on the procedures and requirements for JAIF-supported projects for information and notation of the Meeting. The Chair expressed its appreciation for Japan’s long-term cooperation in the fisheries sector. Commendable feedback to the presentation was also received from the ASWGFi members.

The first Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting for the project “Establishment of a Disaster Emergency Logistics Systems for ASEAN (DELSA) – Phase II: Satellite Warehouse” was held on 25 April 2018 in Royal Princess Larn Luang Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting was co-chaired by Malaysia and Singapore as Co-Chairs of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Preparedness and Response. Thailand, as the host country of the satellite warehouse, also attended the meeting along with the PSC members namely representatives from the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre), ASEAN Secretariat, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund Management Team (JMT).

The PSC members expressed their appreciation to the Government of Japan for continuing its support to ASEAN through the AHA Centre, which is the implementing agency of the DELSA Phase II project. The Co-Chairs highlighted that the continuation of DELSA from Phase I to Phase II indicated the success of the first phase in having delivered tangible results on the ground, which benefited the ASEAN communities affected by disaster in the past five years.

The Government of Cambodia in partnership with the Government of Japan, ASEAN Working Group on Environmentally Sustainable Cities (AWGESC), and ASEAN Secretariat organized the 9th High-Level Seminar on Sustainable Cities (HLS-SC) on 8-10 March 2018 in Siem Reap, Cambodia under the framework of the East Asia Summit Environment Ministers Meeting (EAS EMM). The high-level seminar is organised annually to gather together influential East and Southeast Asia policymakers, experts and practitioners working on clean, green and sustainable cities. The 9th HLS-SC was attended by more than 250 participants, comprising representatives from ASEAN member states, local authorities and supporting organizations, international/regional organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research institutions/academia, private companies, among others. The key messages from the seminar will be reported to EAS environment ministers and at relevant ASEAN meetings.

In this occasion, the JAIF Management Team (JMT) was invited to make a short presentation about JAIF in the session “ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme.” The project “ASEAN SDGs Frontrunner Cities Programme – Upgrading the ASEAN ESC Model Cities Programme” is supported by JAIF.

The first coordination meeting for the project “Technical Assistance for Development of the SOMTC-Japan Work Plan for Cooperation to Combat Terrorism and Transnational Crime (2018-2022)” was held on 7 March 2018 at the Prime Minister’s Office, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. Representatives from Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Brunei, Japan Mission to ASEAN, and Centre for Strategic and International Studies attended the meeting. The JAIF Management Team (JMT) also joined the meeting to provide technical inputs as well as assistance to the project proponent. The meeting discussed the framework of the SOMTC-Japan Work Plan. The proponent also updated the progress of the project implementation including outcomes of country visits.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT) visited proponents and implementing agencies from Malaysia as part of its monitoring activities to help collect relevant information to support the analysis of the overall effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance of JAIF supported projects. The visit also afforded JMT to learn from proponents and implementing agencies about the contributions of JAIF supported projects, including best practices and lessons learned from implementing them. The JMT visited the following ministries and organizations in Malaysia from 26 February – 2 March 2018: Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT), World Food Programme-United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot (WFP-UNHRD), Ministry of Home Affairs, SME Corp., Ministry of Communications and Multimedia, and Marine Transport Training Institute (MATRAIN).

The 4th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the AHA Centre ICT Phase III project was held on 23 February 2018 at the AHA Centre, Jakarta. The meeting was chaired by the Co-Chair of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) Working Group on Knowledge & Innovation Management (Singapore) and attended by representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, AHA Centre, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and JAIF Management Team (JMT). The meeting discussed the preparation of ICT Phase IV project, which is expected to complement AHA Centre’s ICT Road Map Beyond 2020.

The first Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the ACHDA project was held on 22 February 2018 at the ASEAN Secretariat, back to back with the ASEAN-Japan Seminar on Cultural Heritage Digital Archive. It was attended by representatives from Brunei Museums, Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia, Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia, Mission of Japan to ASEAN, NTT Data Corporation, Culture and Information Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, and JAIF Management Team (JMT).

A project on digital archiving of ASEAN’s cultural heritage will make it possible for the public to access some of ASEAN’s museum collections more easily. The ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive (ACHDA) is a milestone project to digitize and present ASEAN’s selected cultural heritage on one website.

The project is being implemented by the ASEAN Secretariat with support from the Government of Japan through JAIF. NTT DATA will facilitate the digitization process in collaboration with cultural institutions in ASEAN member states. Indonesia and Malaysia will be the pilot countries in the project’s first phase.

On 5 February 2018, 15 delegates from the Hiroshima-ASEAN Association led by Setsuko Komatsu, Vice Chair of Hiroshima-ASEAN Association, visited ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC). The Association was established in year 2013 and since its inception, it had been carrying out a wide range of activities including study visits to selected ASEAN Member States (AMSs). The visit is organised on an annual basis to expose its members on the latest status of ASEAN. This year, Indonesia and Malaysia were selected for the study visit. About half of the delegates were top/senior executives of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) headquartered/operating in Hiroshima, Japan and have their business relations in AMSs.

ASEC’s Director for Community Affairs Lee Yoong Yoong welcomed and provided the introduction briefing to the delegates. It was followed by an insightful sharing on ASEAN-Japan Cooperation by the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs H.E. Dr. AKP Mochtan. JAIF Management Team (JMT) Director Miyakawa provided the briefing on Overview of JAIF for Japan-ASEAN Cooperation. Minister, Deputy Chief of Mission of Japan to ASEAN Hikariko Ono also attended the session and provided supplemental information in response to the questions made by the delegates.

The JAIF Management Team (JMT), in collaboration with ASEAN Secretariat’s Program Cooperation and Project Management Division (PCPMD), organized the JAIF Socialization Session for ASEC Staff to facilitate understanding of the JAIF Handbook and Its Supplementary Documents. The said document was recently revised and presented at the 11th ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee—Working Group Meeting held on 5 July 2017 in Jakarta. These documents were then circulated among ASEC staff by PCPMD via e-mail on 11 July 2017 for possible reference and usage to facilitate the respective JAIF supported projects.

A total of 43 participants attended the socialization session, which included 30 ASEC desk officers, 3 PCPMD officers, and 10 JMT officers. This was the second of two sessions. The first session was conducted on 7 November 2017.