A strong earthquake struck central Myanmar on 28 March, causing significant casualties and destruction. A large amount of infrastructure was damaged in the area, with millions of people affected. Preliminary estimates suggest that over 18 million people are living in the earthquake-affected areas. Myanmar experienced severe flooding last September, and the affected areas have not fully recovered. Facing the earthquake now is making the situation for the affected even worse.A large number of people currently lack safe shelter, clean water sources and medical services. Some individuals can only sleep on the ground, and the humanitarian needs are immense. Hong Kong Red Cross (HKRC) has launched an “Emergency Appeal for Myanmar Earthquake 2025”, hoping that the community and citizens will generously donate to provide emergency humanitarian support to those affected in Myanmar, supporting relief, post-disaster recovery, reconstruction and disaster preparedness efforts in the regions.
International Red Cross Actions
After the earthquake, the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) swiftly conducted humanitarian relief efforts on the ground. They activated their Emergency Operation Centre and deployed personnel to the most affected areas of Mandalay, Sagaing and Naypyidaw and supported search and rescue operations, provided first aid, pre-hospital care and emergency medical services to the injured. Additionally, four mobile health teams have been dispatched to the affected areas to provide mental health and community support services. Relief supplies, including blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene kits were distributed. Moreover, the MRCS is conducting post-disaster assessments to better understand the overall impact of the earthquake. The International Red Cross has also launched a global emergency appeal, aiming to raise 100 million Swiss Francs (approximately HK$882 million) to support disaster relief efforts in Myanmar. This funding will provide immediate humanitarian assistance, recovery, and rebuilding efforts for approximately 100,000 individuals in the most severely affected areas over a period of 24 months.
The HKRC Actions
The HKRC has promptly allocated HK$200,000 to support humanitarian relief efforts in Myanmar following the earthquake. We are also providing emergency tracing services to assist Hong Kong residents in locating family members who have lost contact due to the earthquake. Dr. Joyce CHING, Head of International and Relief Service of the HKRC, stated, “The ongoing relief efforts merely represent the first step. For those affected in Myanmar, the journey to rebuild their lives will be long and challenging. In the coming years, considerable humanitarian support will be essential, and your generous contributions will be crucial to making a significant impact.”
The HKRC also plans to conduct street fundraising at 20 locations across Hong Kong on 12 to 13 April (Saturday and Sunday). The needs in the disaster area will evolve with time as relief effort progresses, public donations will enable the HKRC to respond promptly and effectively to the changing needs of the affected population.
In Myanmar, a significant amount of basic infrastructure has been reduced to rubble, and people are facing challenges such as family separations, disrupted communication networks and power outages. There is an urgent need for clean water, food, hygiene kits, disinfectants and medical supplies. The MRCS is leading the frontline response but expanding the scale of relief efforts requires support from all sectors. Recovery in the disaster-stricken areas will take time. In addition to providing emergency assistance, the Red Cross Societies are prepared to support long-term recovery efforts, including planning for transitional shelters, repairing water and sanitation facilities, and supporting healthcare systems. The International Red Cross is calling on governments, donors, partners, and individuals to take immediate action. Every contribution will help save lives and rebuild homes.
Media Enquiry
Alan Ng, Acting Corporate Communications Manager（+852 2507 7510 / alan.ng@redcross.org.hk）
Eunice Chan, Assistant Corporate Communications Manager（+852 2507 7111 / eunice.chan@redcross.org.hk）