Myanmarese seismologist awarded prestigious 2026 ASEAN Prize

Detailed summary

MANILA – Seismologist and disaster preparedness advocate Hla Hla Aung of Myanmar has been named this year’s ASEAN Prize recipient. The prestigious award, con...

Myanmarese seismologist and disaster preparedness advocate Hla Hla Aung (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – Seismologist and disaster preparedness advocate Hla Hla Aung of Myanmar has been named this year’s ASEAN Prize recipient.

The prestigious award, conferred at the opening ceremony of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Sunday, recognized her work in translating scientific knowledge into practical and community-driven solutions.

In a statement, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations said her efforts have contributed to enhancing earthquake preparedness and safer communities across Myanmar and the ASEAN region.

“Throughout my journey as a geologist, researcher, educator, and above all, a mother, I have remained guided by the belief that knowledge must serve humanity. I hope my journey will inspire others to transform their aspirations into meaningful actions that contribute to stronger, safer, and more resilient communities across ASEAN,” Aung said.

In an interview, Aung said timely information sharing remains one of the most important measures a community could push to enhance its resilience.

She shared that in disasters such as earthquakes, saving lives often lies in one of the most basic measures, such as prompt actions based on science-informed advisories.

“Receiving the ASEAN Prize is a reminder that the true measure of our contributions lies not only in what we achieve, but in the difference we make to the community,” Aung said.

ASEAN Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn praised Aung’s lifelong dedication to advancing the region’s disaster resilience.

Opening of the article, excerpted from Philippine News Agency. To read the rest, open the article on the publisher's site.