In response to the need for an effective regional disaster preparedness mechanism following the aftermath of the Indian Ocean Tsunami, UNESCAP established in late 2005 a regional multi-donor voluntary trust fund for early warning system arrangements in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. At present, the Trust Fund counts on contributions from the Government of Thailand and Government of Sweden. This fund aims to support capacity building measures for the development of early warning systems for tsunamis in a multi-hazard content by supporting relevant prevention and preparedness activities through regional, sub-regional and national entities working in disaster management. Such activities will ultimately contribute to enhanced regional coordination and cooperation for natural disaster preparedness and prevention.