Exercise ARDEX ASEAN Regional Disaster Emergency Response Simulation Exercise (ARDEX) is a joint exercise involving the rescue teams of ASEAN. It focuses on response systems and operational procedures, encompassing the entire cycle of emergency response – activation, mobilisation, engagement and de-mobilisation. Ex ARDEX 2005 was conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in that same year. Rescuers from Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Singapore participated in the deployment of Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) capabilities to provide assistance in an earthquake impact scenario. Cambodia was next with Ex ARDEX 2006. Singapore followed up with Ex ARDEX 2007 at Mandai Training Village; rescue teams from Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia took part. Ex ARDEX 2008 was held in Thailand. In this instance, the simulation exercise was based on the scenario of a typhoon which affected 300,000 people, destroyed some 23,000 houses and severely damaged Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate, the country’s largest industrial complex. Eight ASEAN member states participated in this disaster relief exercise.
MOU with the Chinese Earthquake Administration (CEA) On 8 April 2004, SCDF marked yet another milestone in its international relations as it signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chinese authorities. The momentous event was to enhance collaboration and exchange of expertise in disaster management and emergency rescue operations in an urban setting between the two countries. Since then, DART specialists and their Chinese counterparts have been training together regularly.
A group photo with the Chinese counterparts.
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