29-3-2025 (KUALA LUMPUR) In the wake of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, Southeast Asian nations have mobilised swiftly to provide humanitarian assistance to the affected regions.
The death toll has risen dramatically, with Myanmar authorities reporting 694 fatalities—a significant increase from the initial count of 144—alongside 1,670 injured citizens. In response to the catastrophe, Myanmar’s ruling junta has declared a state of emergency across multiple regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Eastern Shan State and the capital Naypyidaw, whilst also appealing for international support.
Malaysia, currently chairing ASEAN, has taken a leading role in the relief efforts. A vanguard team of 10 specialists from their national disaster management agency has already been dispatched, with plans to deploy an additional 40-member contingent on Sunday. This expanded team will implement targeted assistance based on preliminary assessments conducted by the advance unit.
I am deeply concerned by the powerful earthquake that struck central Myanmar and northern Thailand, causing tragic loss of life and severe destruction in Mandalay, Bangkok, and nearby regions. The reports of collapsed buildings, trapped civilians, and mounting casualties are… pic.twitter.com/1w4R9BHNKM
— Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) March 28, 2025
The seismic event’s impact extended beyond Myanmar’s borders, with tremors felt across several major Southeast Asian cities, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Ho Chi Minh City. Thailand has reported eight casualties and subsequently declared a state of emergency. The quake’s reverberations reached as far as Yunnan in southern China, causing structural damage to buildings.
Regional solidarity has been prominently displayed, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto extending both condolences and offers of practical assistance to Myanmar and Thailand. The Philippines has likewise signalled its readiness to contribute to recovery efforts, with both its Foreign Affairs and Health departments pledging support.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia expressed his nation’s sympathy whilst highlighting the coordinated regional response through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management. This collaborative approach underscores the region’s commitment to mutual support during natural disasters.
