| James Kon |
EFFORTS to expand the role of the Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) as a resilient community able to provide aid and assistance during major natural disasters or during the spread of pandemics are something that need to be discussed between all stakeholders to identify the society’s strengths and areas for improvement.
The idea of hosting the forum – co-hosted by BDRCS – came from John Gwynn, Asia Pacific Organisational Development Coordinator of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) who is on a two-day visit to the aforementioned society.
John Gwynn presented the Red Cross and Red Crescent 2020 strategic plan to school cadet officers and Red Crescent trainers yesterday afternoon at the Health Promotion Centre.
Gwynn said the BDRCS “has put together the next five-year strategic plan and is thinking of contributing to the nation’s building”.
The IFRC’s understanding of community resilience has grown to recognise the ever-evolving and dynamic nature of communities and the underlying vulnerabilities that challenge them.
John Gwynn, Asia Pacific Organisational Development Coordinator of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies at the event. – JAMES KON
Responding to this, the IFRC’s approach has focussed on combining humanitarian concern for imminent threats with long-term, sustainable approaches and institutional strengthening traditionally associated with development.
With an increased ability to adapt and cope with disasters, crises, shocks and stresses, communities can protect and build on development gains that they have already made and address the effects of underlying vulnerabilities that challenge them.
Gwynn praised the BDRCS for building up a strong presence in the country, with branches in all districts and a very strong youth base as well as presence in schools.
“Many other countries can learn from the success and knowledge of the BDRCS,” he added.
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