Humanitarian Mission to Myanmar: Malaysian SMART Team Arrives in Sagaing District
Mission Commences: Malaysian SMART Team Arrives in Myanmar’s Sagaing District
The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) contingent has arrived in Myanmar’s Sagaing district to commence a humanitarian mission and assist in search and rescue (SAR) operations for earthquake victims. The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) announced that the Malaysian Humanitarian Aid Mission (MAS-01) team reached the area after a nearly 24-hour journey with police assistance and escort.
Establishing a Base of Operations
Upon arrival at the operational site, the team established a Base of Operations (BoO) to facilitate the aid mission. The contingent commander also held a meeting with the Local Emergency Management Authorities (LEMA), represented by district officer U Myaw Swar Maung Soe.
Contingent Composition
The contingent, led by PgKB I Mohamad Hafiezul Abdul Halim, comprises 16 representatives from the Malaysian Armed Forces, 13 from the Royal Malaysia Police, and 21 from the Fire and Rescue Department.
The Earthquake and Its Impact
Last Friday, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, severely affecting Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Naypyidaw. The tremor also impacted neighboring Thailand. The death toll in Myanmar has reached nearly 2,000, with thousands injured and hundreds still missing.
Background and Preparation
Yesterday, Bernama reported that 50 SMART personnel and officers departed for Naypyidaw, Myanmar, aboard two A400M aircraft belonging to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) for the humanitarian mission and SAR operations. The first aircraft landed at 11:36 am yesterday, followed by the second at 2:00 pm, carrying NADMA personnel and SAR equipment. The entire team then traveled approximately eight hours by land to reach the operation site.
Conclusion
The Malaysian SMART team’s arrival in Myanmar’s Sagaing district marks the beginning of a crucial humanitarian mission. As the team commences its search and rescue operations, they will work closely with local authorities to provide aid and assistance to those affected by the devastating earthquake. The Malaysian government’s swift response to this crisis demonstrates its commitment to providing humanitarian aid to those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the composition of the Malaysian SMART team?
A: The contingent consists of 16 representatives from the Malaysian Armed Forces, 13 from the Royal Malaysia Police, and 21 from the Fire and Rescue Department.
Q: How did the team arrive in Myanmar?
A: The team arrived in Myanmar after a nearly 24-hour journey with police assistance and escort.
Q: What is the purpose of the Malaysian Humanitarian Aid Mission (MAS-01)?
A: The mission is to provide humanitarian assistance and support to those affected by the earthquake in Myanmar.
Q: What is the current death toll in Myanmar?
A: The death toll in Myanmar has reached nearly 2,000, with thousands injured and hundreds still missing.