BANGKOK, 7 November 2024 – Sustainable Use of Peatlands and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN/Strengthening Regional Experiences on Sustainable Peatland Management in ASEAN (SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT) organised its closing meeting on 6-7 November 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting showcased the achievements and success that the project has done in the span of five years of implementation in the region.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Achievements
As the curtain fell on the SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT project, it became clear that the initiative had made lasting strides in addressing one of the region’s most pressing environmental challenges—peatland degradation. Over the past five years, the project has not only contributed to the implementation of the ASEAN Peatland Management Strategy (APMS) but also laid the groundwork for more resilient and sustainable livelihoods across ASEAN Member States (AMS).
The closing event kicked off with an enlightening presentation by Remote Sensing Solutions GmbH, who revealed an updated peatland map for Southeast Asia—an invaluable tool in monitoring and managing these vital ecosystems. However, it was the second day of the meeting that truly encapsulated the emotional weight of the project’s achievements as ASEAN Member States (AMS), the ASEAN Secretariat, and SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT team gathered for one last time under the SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT event. Representatives from German Embassy in Bangkok and EU Delegation to ASEAN were also present.
Dr. Vong Sok, Head of the Environment Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, delivered a heartfelt message highlighting the significant contribution of the SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT in championing the implementation of the APMS, which include the support for the development of the Second APMS (2023-2030). “On behalf of the ASEAN Secretasriat and ASEAN Member States, we would like to convey our appreciation to Germany and EU for the generous support and reiterate our commitment to continue our efforts for integrated peatland management, engage with stakeholders and the community, for resilient and sustainable livelihoods.”
Reflecting on the Journey: From Concept to Impact
In a poignant online address, Mr. Muamar Vebry, Programme Manager for Climate Change and Disaster Management at the EU Delegation to Indonesia and ASEAN, took attendees on a journey back to the early days of the project. He noted that the SUPA initiative had been a “pioneering endeavour in sustainable peatland management across ASEAN.” He also highlighted the project’s achievements “We have tirelessly supported the implementation of ASEAN Peatland Management Strategy (APMS) and strengthened the capacity of AMS with over 30 capacity building activities and more than 1,000 individuals trained,” he said.
Indeed, the project’s holistic approach—spanning regional, national, and local levels—was a defining feature of its success. Throughout the meeting, the event’s design allowed for a deep dive into the various interventions and collaborations that had shaped the project.
A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion on strengthening regional cooperation and capacity building, which featured key experts: Mr. Muhammad Askary from Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Republic Indonesia, Ms. Nadzmin Ahmad Nazir from Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Malaysia, Dr. Israr Albar from Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Republic Indonesia, and Ms. Mardiah Hayati from ASEAN Secretariat. The discussion underscored the importance of continued collaboration between ASEAN nations in order to enhance the region’s collective capacity to manage peatlands effectively.
From National Strategies to Local Action: Making a Difference on the Ground
The impact of the project was felt not only at the regional level but also through its tailored support at the national level. During the meeting, representatives from several ASEAN Member States presented their experiences with implementing the APMS and National Action Plans for Peatlands (NAPPs) through grant funding from the project. These presentations offered a candid look at both the successes and the challenges encountered along the way—and provided valuable insights for future efforts.
The local impact was equally significant. Representatives from the SUPA pilot sites in Pahang, Malaysia, and Aceh, Indonesia, shared their firsthand experiences, detailing how the project had helped build local capacity and foster community-driven solutions to peatland management. These grassroots efforts, coupled with national and regional strategies, have provided a blueprint for sustainable peatland management in the ASEAN region.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
While the SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT project may have come to a close, the momentum it has generated is far from over. As Mr. Hans-Ulrich Südbeck, Head of the Economic Department at the German Embassy in Bangkok, noted during his opening remarks, “Looking into the future of the collaboration of German-ASEAN, we will put a strong focus on the new project which is Southeast Asia Clean Air Initiative. This is aiming at ensuring a smooth transition of efforts from SUPA to broader climate action in the region.”
In accordance with Mr. Südbeck’s comments, GIZ also introduced new projects “Sustainable Land Use & Climate Action Policy in ASEAN (CAP)” and “Integrated Approaches for Air Quality Management & Climate Change in Southeast Asia or Southeast Asia Clean Air Initiative (SEACAI)” which would continue the legacy of SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT in mitigating the climate change and air pollution in Southeast Asia.
Ms. Barbara Goncalves from SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT shared the lessons learned from the programme, and Mr. Shameer Khanal, GIZ Cooperation Area Lead ASEAN wrapped up the event.
A Farewell, But Not Goodbye
As the project’s formal activities had concluded, its impact would continue to resonate across the ASEAN region. The contributions of the donors, partners, and stakeholders were acknowledged, with a shared sense of gratitude for the collective efforts that had made SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT a success.
The achievements of SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT
Watch the achievement video: SUPA/ASEAN REPEAT: Celebrating Five Years of Implementation in ASEAN
