Myanmar geologist-seismologist conferred Asean Prize
By turning decades of earthquake research into practical safety measures for communities and schoolchildren, Myanmar geologist-seismologist Hla Hla Aung has helped strengthen disaster preparedness across Southeast Asia, earning her the 2026 Asean Prize.
President Marcos and Asean Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn presented the award to Aung, 79, during the opening ceremony of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center on Sunday.
Aung, the ninth recipient of the region’s premier award, was recognized for advancing earthquake research, disaster risk reduction and fostering knowledge-sharing among experts.
As a patron of the Myanmar Earthquake Committee, Aung has helped bridge scientific research, policy advocacy and grassroots action. Her work has strengthened earthquake preparedness and local capacity by making technical knowledge accessible to communities, schools and disaster-management stakeholders.
Her outreach includes educating communities and schoolchildren about earthquake risks, safety and preparedness, helping them understand how to respond before disaster strikes.
‘Serving humanity’
Aung studied geology at Yangon University, where she worked as a research assistant from 1969 to 1993. In 2007, she became a senior researcher at the Myanmar Engineering Society under the Myanmar Earthquake Committee.
She has a total of 60 publications listed on ResearchGate. Her works include “Myanmar Earthquakes History,” whose third edition appeared in 2017, and a 2011 study titled “Potential Seismicity of Yangon Region (Geological Approach).”
In accepting the award, Aung said she was honored and grateful, adding that contributions should be measured by their impact on communities.
“At 79 years of age, I have come to appreciate that time is our most precious asset, and how we choose to use it defines our legacy,” she said.
“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.”
‘Positive change’
Aung said she hoped her journey would inspire others to turn aspirations into meaningful action and help build stronger, safer and more resilient communities across Asean.
Kao said Aung’s work supported Myanmar communities and Asean’s priorities in disaster management and sustainable development.
“Her exemplary work is a testament to how an individual’s dedication, supported by collective action, can deliver positive change and contribute to Asean’s efforts to build a safer, more inclusive, and resilient future for the region,” he said.
The Asean Secretariat administers the prize, supported by Singapore-based Temasek Foundation. The Ayala Foundation of the Philippines supported this year’s award. —WITH A REPORT FROM INQUIRER RESEARCH
