KUALA LUMPUR: The Civil Defence Force (APM) is prepared to provide humanitarian aid to victims of the earthquake that struck Myanmar.
APM chief commissioner Datuk Aminurrahim Mohamed said with its experience and expertise in disaster management, the agency is on standby to deploy a specialised team to assist in search and rescue operations.
“APM comprises trained medical officers, rescue teams and logistics experts experienced in disaster response, ensuring operations are carried out efficiently and effectively.
“We are awaiting official instructions from the National Disaster Management Agency and are on standby for deployment at any time if required,” he said, Bernama reported.
Aminurrahim added that the team is equipped with specialised tools and equipment to conduct operations and deliver emergency assistance swiftly and effectively.
Among the specialised equipment at its disposal are the Leader Sentry, which detects building stability; the Leader Hasty, a wireless technology used to locate buried victims; and the Lighting Drone, which provides emergency illumination and video surveillance for nighttime operations.
“Malaysia remains committed to regional cooperation and continues to play a key role in humanitarian aid and disaster management within Asean.
“In line with the standards set by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, every mission adheres to international protocols, ensuring that rescue teams are equipped with technical expertise, advanced equipment and systematic operating procedures,” he said.
On Friday afternoon, Bernama reported that the United States Geological Survey recorded a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar at a depth of 10km, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock minutes later.
The tremors were felt in Chiang Mai and Bangkok in Thailand, as well as in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
