Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia is among the first countries to extend aid to Myanmar following the earthquake disaster, thus demonstrating the spirit of ASEAN, said Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. He stated that Malaysia has deployed 50 members of the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) to Myanmar this morning to carry out search and rescue (SAR) operations following the earthquake.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday (March 28), with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan state, Sagaing, and Naypyidaw being among the worst-hit areas. The tremors also affected neighboring Thailand. As of yesterday, the disaster’s death toll in Myanmar had reached nearly 2,000, with thousands injured and hundreds more still missing.

Shamsul Azri conveyed his prayers for the safety and protection of SMART Malaysia, led by contingent commander Senior Fire Superintendent 1 (PgKB 1) Mohamad Hafiezul Abdul Halim, hoping for the mission to proceed smoothly. He also expressed gratitude to the security personnel, including the police, fire department, military, and medical teams, for their sacrifices and humanitarian aid services during this festive season.