By Nur Ashikin Abdul Aziz
SINGAPORE, March 30 (Bernama) -- The Singapore government will contribute S$150,000 (S$1 = RM3.30) in urgent humanitarian assistance to the victims of the Myanmar earthquake, in addition to the Singapore Red Cross’ initial pledge of S$150,000 through its public fundraising campaign.
Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan said Singapore stands ready to provide further tranches of humanitarian assistance over the next few days, depending on how the situation evolves.
“Later today, the Singapore Armed Forces will also deploy a needs assessment and survey team from the Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Centre to determine how we can provide further targeted support,” he said on Facebook on Sunday.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force’s Operation Lionheart contingent, an 80-member search and rescue unit, has been in Naypyidaw since Saturday.
Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar as they face the aftermath of the worst earthquake to hit the country in a century.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this immense tragedy,” he said.
The minister said that at this critical moment, Singapore hopes for an effective ceasefire in Myanmar so that all efforts can be focused on saving lives and supporting those in need.
“In the longer term, we remain committed to supporting Myanmar’s journey toward recovery, peace, and reconstruction,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr Balakrishnan on Sunday attended the virtual Special Emergency Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers in the Aftermath of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand, which was convened by Malaysia as ASEAN Chair, according to a statement by the Foreign Ministry.
He supported the proposal for ASEAN to further expand its assistance to the countries affected, as coordinated by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management.
“Singapore stands in solidarity with ASEAN during this difficult time. Singapore will continue to monitor developments closely, and work with our partners in ASEAN to assist those affected by the earthquake,” the statement said.
-- BERNAMA
