The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit Myanmar yesterday — the impact was also felt severely in Thailand — has crossed 1,000 now, according to reports. A smaller earthquake of 4.3 magnitude jolted the region today. In the context of this huge disaster in South East Asia, the Singapore arm of Red Cross Society has committed SGD 150,000 for relief and rescue efforts.
In a press release today, Singapore Red Cross (SRC) said: “In response to the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Central Myanmar and Thailand on Friday afternoon, the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) is committing an initial SGD 150,000 to support emergency relief efforts in both countries.”
It said: “The contribution will go towards addressing immediate needs, including the distribution of essential supplies, such as food, water, blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene kits, by the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) and Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS).”
Also read: India sends 15 tonnes of relief material to earthquake-ravaged Myanmar
The Singapore Red Cross said that in order to fund the relief and rescue in Myanmar and Thailand, it would soon launch a “public fundraising appeal” and that the details would be shared via the Singapore Red Cross’ website redcross.sg.
For Singapore residents who are worried about the well-being of their relatives in Myanmar and Thailand, the Singapore Red Cross has activated its “Restoring Family Links” (RFL) service. This may be able to assist Singapore residents who are having trouble with contacting family members in Myanmar and Thailand. The email ID for assistance is rfl@redcross.sg and a Google Doc form has been provided for people who wish to register for the service.
Singapore Red Cross Secretary General/CEO Benjamin William said, “We are deeply concerned about the affected communities. Many people are injured, displaced and in urgent need of assistance. Widespread damage to infrastructure is hindering urgent rescue and relief operations on the ground. The scale of devastation calls for swift and coordinated humanitarian response. We are working closely with our Red Cross partners to ensure that help reaches those who need it most. I appeal to the public to come alongside us to support this effort.”
The press release informed: “SRC is working closely with the respective Red Cross Societies to monitor and assess the situation, and stands ready to provide further assistance, such as deploying humanitarian responders to support relief efforts in the affected communities.”
