A-PAD has begun preparations for a joint training exercise in 2026, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and immediate response capabilities across this disaster-prone region.

In collaboration with the National Fire Agency (NFA) of Taiwan, the 12-day practical training program will focus on mastering advanced rope rescue techniques and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) skills. Starting this year, the program will place a new focus on Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training courses, allowing participants to acquire both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills in emergency medical response.

Demonstrating Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities cultivated through joint training in 2025 

As disasters become increasingly severe and frequent due to climate change, South Asia suffered a series of devastating events last year, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen response capabilities across all of Asia.

When Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in November 2025, A-PAD Sri Lanka’s Search and Rescue (SAR) team dispatched personnel, saving 21 lives during a four-day operation. In December and January, the team contributed to the rescue of tourists who had fallen from cliffs at the popular destination, Little Adam’s Peak.

The members of this SAR team had participated in the Indo-Pacific Joint Rope Rescue and Urban Search and Rescue Training held in Taiwan last year. They successfully applied their specialized knowledge and techniques to real-world emergencies in their home country, demonstrating the direct impact of their disaster preparedness training. 

Launching Crowdfunding to Strengthen SAR Personnel Through Continuous Joint Training

To strengthen disaster response capabilities across Asia through joint training in Taiwan, A-PAD will launch a crowdfunding campaign on Give.Asia from Friday, April 24, to Monday, June 15, 2026.

The funds raised through this campaign will be used to send 20 trainees from Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Bangladesh to Taiwan. This initiative aims to strengthen SAR human resources by building capacity through intensive joint training exercises.

In Asia, a region highly prone to natural disasters, your support is vital to our mission of saving lives in less time. 

Crowdfunding Overview:

Project Title: Rescue Beyond Borders: Equipping the Indo-Pacific’s First Responders

Goal: JPY2 Million (US$13,000)

Purpose: Expenses related to the trainings and dispatching trainees