ASEAN COVID-19 Active and Robust Response (ASEAN CARES) was a regional COVID-19 relief initiative implemented by the ASEAN Foundation, with support from 3M, the Community Chest of Korea, and the United Worldwide. Launched in response to the health and socio-economic impacts of the pandemic, the programme focused on reaching marginalised and vulnerable communities including refugees, migrants, persons with disabilities, women-headed households, and lactating mothers, in Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand.

Rooted in the outcomes of the Special ASEAN Summit and ASEAN Plus Three Summit on COVID-19 in April 2020, the programme embodied a coordinated, multi-sectoral, and community-based approach to crisis response. By combining regional solidarity with local partnerships, ASEAN CARES provided vital relief and hope to those most affected by the crisis.

ASEAN CARES aimed to strengthen community resilience and raise public awareness through a combination of humanitarian aid and health education. In its pilot phase that ended in 2021, the programme distributed essential food supplies, hygiene kits, and COVID-19 prevention materials to over 11,000 individuals, in partnership with seven local civil society organisations. Awareness campaigns were also deployed at regional and national levels to improve understanding of the virus and promote preventive behaviours.