2022-04-06-ASEAN-通往可持续城市之路_56页_19mb

Summary of The ASEAN June-July 2021 Edition

Main Theme

Addressing sustainable urbanization, COVID-19 response efforts, public health threats like dengue, and strengthening regional cooperation across Southeast Asia.

Key Sections & Highlights

1. ASEAN Sustainable Urbanization

• The region is focusing on smart city development to improve quality of life, resilience, and inclusive growth. ASEAN countries have set ambitious goals for reducing emissions, investing in green infrastructure, and implementing sustainable transport solutions.
• Challenges include digital divides, infrastructure deficits, and climate vulnerabilities, which are being tackled through regional partnerships like the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN) and the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS).
• ASEAN’s Master Plan on Connectivity (MPAC 2025) aims to enhance infrastructure, digital connectivity, and mobility to foster regional economic integration.

2. COVID-19 Response

• ASEAN Health Ministers met virtually to coordinate vaccination efforts, genomic surveillance, and pandemic preparedness. Regional mechanisms like the ASEAN Response Fund and the ASEAN Portal for Public Health Emergencies were reinforced to support COVID-19 measures.
• The region faces challenges such as misinformation, vaccine equity, and disruptions to supply chains, which threaten public health responses.

3. Public Health Focus

• Dengue: Annual cases remain high in ASEAN. Initiatives include using bacteria like Wolbachia to combat the Aedes mosquito, improving surveillance, and public awareness campaigns. Lockdowns during the pandemic have hampered control efforts, increasing transmission.
• Air Quality: Urban air pollution from vehicles kills thousands annually. Cities are promoting public transport, cycling, and stricter emissions standards to mitigate this threat.

4. Urban Challenges

• Transportation: Road congestion in cities like Manila and Jakarta strains infrastructure and contributes to pollution. Mass public transport is being expanded, and efforts like promoting cycling aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
• Food Waste: Countries like Indonesia and Singapore are addressing food insecurity through apps (e.g., Surplus in Indonesia) and community-based programs to reduce waste and redistribute surplus food.

5. Digital Connectivity

• Digital technologies are critical for urban services and economic resilience, but barriers like the digital divide require inclusive policies. ASEAN collaboration with partners has supported cities in developing digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystems.
• Initiatives include the ASEAN Smart City Investment Toolkit, designed to facilitate funding and implementation of smart city projects.

6. Cultural Exchange

• ASEAN-India Ties: Deep historical, literary, and musical exchanges were highlighted, underscoring ASEAN’s shared ties with India. Projects like the ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archive promote regional understanding and tolerance.
• ASEAN-High-Level Cultural Forum: Recommendations include prioritizing media strategies, biodiversity conservation, creative partnerships, and tolerance-building initiatives to foster regional solidarity.

Conclusion

The ASEAN region is navigating interconnected challenges, from pandemics and climate change to urbanization. Strengthening regional collaboration, leveraging technology, and promoting inclusive policies remain central to achieving sustainable development and resilience.