On 19-20 September 2024, AFSIS Secretariat with support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan hosted the 3rd Regional Workshop on Rice Growing Outlook (RGO) and Maize Growing Outlook (MGO) under the Project for Strengthening ASEAN Food Security Information System Function for Emergency (SAFER) at the Peri Hotel, Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima
The workshop was honored by the following distinguished representatives who were Mr. Vinit Atisook Deputy Secretary General of OAE from the MOAC of Thailand, Ms. Sari Murai Section Chief of the Statistics Planning Division, Statistics Department from MAFF, Japan delivered the opening remarks and opened the event, along with welcome addresses from Dr. Sumanya Ngandee, AFSIS Manager delivered the welcome remarks.
19 participants from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Japan attended the workshop physically, and 4 online participants from Cambodia and Vietnam. The workshop aims to enhance the capacity of ASEAN Member countries to utilize meteorological information and draft a straightforward report for the RGO and MGO. Participants were trained in data gathering, analysis, and interpretation related to rice and maize production, with a focus on agronomy guidelines for consistency across the region. The event fostered collaboration and information sharing to improve agricultural production insights and preparedness for challenges.
Additionally, participants had the opportunity to visit the National Corn and Sorghum Research Center, where they gained valuable insights into maize cultivation and key growth factors. This field trip enriched their understanding and provided practical knowledge applicable to their own agricultural report.
The workshop concluded successfully, with participants expressing gratitude to the AFSIS Secretariat and MAFF of Japan for their organization and support in strengthening food security information systems.
In late November and early December 2024, Malaysia and southern Thailand experienced severe flooding and heavy rainfall, which caused widespread damage, including landslides and agricultural devastation. In Malaysia, 25 districts across seven states were severely impacted, with households evacuated and extensive flooding reported. Similarly, southern Thailand experienced heavy rains and flash flooding, particularly in provinces affecting over 136,000 households. The floods severely damaged agricultural sectors, with significant losses in paddy rice and other crops, amounting to millions of dollars in damages in both countries. In response, both nations initiated emergency measures, including providing aid and conducting damage assessments. Malaysia focused on intensive assistance to affected households, while Thailand mobilized a range of relief efforts, including specialized equipment and emergency vehicles, to support flood-stricken regions. The agricultural losses in both countries highlight the critical need for improved disaster preparedness and more resilient agricultural systems.
The tropical cyclones that impacted the Philippines in November 2024, including Yinxing, Oraji, Usagi, and Man-Yi, have caused widespread devastation across several provinces, resulting in heavy rainfall, severe winds, flooding, and significant agricultural damage. These storms have left communities grappling with extensive losses, including damaged crops, disrupted livelihoods, and displacement. Despite the severe impacts, the government of the Philippines, along with international aid from neighboring countries and global partners, has mobilized resources for relief and recovery. The ongoing efforts to assist those affected highlight the resilience of the Filipino people and the importance of continued preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
On 26-27 November 2024, Dr. Sumanya Ngandee, the AFSIS Manager, participated in the 30th session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF-30), held in Perth, Australia. This event was co-organized by the Australian Space Agency (ASA), the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The forum's focus was to bring together stakeholders from various space agencies in the Asia-Pacific region to address pressing regional issues through space-based solutions.
On Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 22:57 WITA, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, one of Indonesia’s 120 active volcanoes, erupted on the island of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province, The eruption, lasting 24 minutes (1,450 seconds), was recorded with a massive amplitude of 47.3 mm. According to Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency, a strong eruption sent ash up to 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), affecting over 10,000 people. Smaller eruptions followed on November 5-6. In response, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) raised the volcano’s alert status to “Awas” (Level IV), indicating a high danger level.
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