BEIJING, Nov 14 — Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) represented by Dr. Azlin Abd Jamil was invited to participate as an observer at the Belt and Road Emergency Management Youth Exchange Program (BRIDRREM) in Beijing, China. Organized by China’s Ministry of Emergency Management (MEM), the program brought together participants from Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries to exchange insights on disaster management, explore collaboration opportunities, gain valuable knowledge to enhance Malaysia’s emergency strategies, and identify potential avenues for cooperation with China in disaster management and related areas. During the visit, UTM was also invited to the 2024 Coordinators’ Meeting, which addressed the development of BRIDRREM, amendments to its charter, elections of key roles, new memberships, and the Ministerial Forum planned for 2025.
Throughout the program, participants visited several key facilities showcasing China’s advanced approach to disaster preparedness. At the National Disaster Reduction Center of China (NDRCC), they explored sophisticated systems for monitoring natural disasters and issuing early warnings. A visit to the Key Laboratory of Industrial Safety Accident Analysis and Monitoring offered insights into how China addresses industrial risks and implements preventive measures. Another notable highlight was the National Earthquake Emergency Rescue Training Base, where participants observed China’s preparedness and response strategies for earthquake emergencies. The week concluded with a tour of the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME), which featured cutting-edge technologies and solutions in disaster management. Witnessing China’s extensive preparedness efforts not only inspired hope for its potential support to countries in need but also underscored the importance of each nation prioritizing its own readiness to face increasingly unpredictable disasters.
In addition to technical learning, the program also included cultural experiences that helped participants connect on a personal level. A visit to the iconic Great Wall of China and traditional markets offered a glimpse into China’s rich history and vibrant culture. These activities helped build friendships and mutual understanding among attendees from different countries. The program wasn’t just about learning—it was also about building connections. Through discussions and networking opportunities, Malaysia particularly could benefit from closer ties with China in areas like disaster response technology and training.
While being an observer is crucial for bringing back fresh ideas and perspectives, the insights gained during the program will support Malaysia in considering new approaches to disaster preparedness and exploring opportunities for collaboration with China on shared challenges. In conclusion, the BRIDRREM program successfully highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing global issues. For Malaysia and UTM, this experience represents a significant step toward strengthening disaster management systems while fostering meaningful international partnerships. The knowledge acquired during the visit has already been strategized to be shared with relevant researchers and experts at UTM, providing them with valuable exposure and opportunities for further exploration.
