7.7-magnitude earthquake, with its epicenter near Sagaing, Myanmar, sent tremors throughout the region
TNS News Team
KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed deep concern and offered Malaysia’s support following the powerful earthquake that struck central Myanmar and northern Thailand on March 28th, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming numerous lives.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, with its epicenter near Sagaing, Myanmar, sent tremors throughout the region, causing significant damage in Mandalay, Bangkok, and surrounding areas.
Reports detailed collapsed buildings, trapped civilians, and a rising casualty count, painting a grim picture of the disaster’s impact.The tremors were also felt in southern Yunnan, China, where structural damage was reported, further highlighting the quake’s widespread reach.
“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,” Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated in a Facebook post. “The reports of collapsed buildings, trapped civilians, and mounting casualties are deeply distressing. We are also closely monitoring developments in China’s southern Yunnan, where tremors have been felt and structural damage reported.”
The earthquake’s impact was particularly devastating in Bangkok, where a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping numerous workers. In Myanmar, critical infrastructure such as the Naypyitaw airport’s air traffic control tower and several government buildings were destroyed.
In his post, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim extended Malaysia’s deepest condolences to the affected nations. “On behalf of Malaysia, I extend our deepest condolences to all those who have lost loved ones, and our prayers to those injured and displaced,” he said.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Prime Minister affirmed Malaysia’s unwavering solidarity with its ASEAN neighbors. “Malaysia stands in unwavering solidarity with our neighbours and fellow ASEAN Member States,” he emphasized. He acknowledged the state of emergency declared by Myanmar authorities and the designation of Bangkok as a disaster-stricken area by the Thai government.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim pledged Malaysia’s readiness to provide assistance and support humanitarian efforts. “Malaysia is ready to extend assistance and support humanitarian efforts as needed,” he declared. “In this time of shared grief and resilience, may recovery be swift, and may the strength of our regional bonds bring hope and healing.”
The Prime Minister’s statement underscores Malaysia’s commitment to regional cooperation and its willingness to extend a helping hand in times of crisis, reflecting the spirit of ASEAN solidarity. Sources and related content.
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