PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) is appealing for public support to assist communities affected by severe flash floods in northern Nepal.
The humanitarian organisation said the devastating floods, which struck the country’s Rasuwa district on Wednesday (Aug 26), resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of communities and extensive damage to homes and critical infrastructure.
According to an analysis by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a Himalayan glacial collapse was believed to have triggered the incident, which generated energy equivalent to a 5.2-magnitude earthquake.
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“Based on the latest available reports, hundreds of people have lost their lives, while many others remain missing, including residents and foreign nationals.
“Preliminary estimates indicate that approximately 93,000 people may have been affected.
“However, the full extent of the impact is still being verified as assessments continue in areas that remain difficult to access,” it said in a statement on Saturday (Aug 29).
MRC also expressed its solidarity with the Nepal Red Cross Society, affected communities, and responders involved in relief efforts.
“Immediate humanitarian priorities include search and rescue, emergency shelter, safe drinking water, food assistance, essential relief items, first aid and health support, sanitation and hygiene services, restoring family links and assistance to reach isolated communities.
“MRC appeals to the public and organisations across Malaysia to stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal and contribute to the humanitarian response.
“Contributions received will support relief and recovery efforts for communities affected by the floods,” it said.
It added that members of the public who wish to contribute should direct their donations to official MRC channels.
“Donors are advised to refer only to official MRC communications for confirmed donation account details, payment references and further updates relating to this appeal.
“MRC will continue to closely monitor the situation and assess the humanitarian needs arising from the disaster.
“Further updates on any appeal and response efforts will be communicated through official MRC channels,” it said.
Members of the public who wish to contribute can make donations to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society’s (Persatuan Bulan Sabit Merah Malaysia) CIMB Bank account at 8001581667, using “Nepal Floods Appeal” as the payment reference.
The donation appeal will run from Aug 29 to Nov 30.
