Case Study: Myanmar Earthquake 28.3.2025

Myanmar is reeling following the huge earthquake that hit the country on Friday, 28 March.

The 7.7 magnitude tremor was felt elsewhere, including in Thailand and south-west China.

More than 3,000 people have died, and more than 4,500 have been injured.

Those figures are expected to rise. In Thailand, at least 21 people lost their lives.

Read the following resources to gather more information about the earthquake

Singapore's response

An 80-member team from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), along with four search canines, departed for Myanmar on March 29 to support rescue efforts following the devastating earthquake.

According to an SCDF spokesperson, the Operation Lionheart contingent left around 1 pm. This marks the first time the team has been deployed at full strength since their earthquake relief mission to Turkey in 2023, the spokesperson told The Straits Times.

Search specialists and four canines from SCDF’s search platoon are deployed as part of the OLH contingent to conduct search and rescue operations at potential rescue sites

Transportation carriers to support the contingent’s operations have been prepared. These carriers contain USAR equipment, medical supplies, field rations, tentage, and communications and logistics support equipment.

Myanmar Calls for Urgent International Aid After Devastating Earthquake

A powerful earthquake has struck Myanmar, leaving widespread devastation in its wake. While the full extent of the catastrophe is still unfolding, Myanmar’s junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has appealed for immediate international assistance.

Humanitarian aid, rescue teams, and prayers are pouring into the war-ravaged country as it struggles to cope with the aftermath of the massive quake. Early estimates suggest that tens of thousands of lives may have been lost, with countless others injured or displaced.

Why Did Myanmar Request International Help?

Myanmar’s infrastructure has been severely weakened by years of conflict and economic instability. The country lacks the resources and emergency response capacity to handle a disaster of this scale, making international assistance crucial for search-and-rescue operations and humanitarian relief.

What challenges might Myanmar face in effectively distributing international aid?
How can regional cooperation improve disaster response efforts in Southeast Asia?

Extension of learning

Refer to the textbook on Everyday Geography page 36 to 38.

Based on the concept of disaster risk management, which country—Singapore or Myanmar—is more prepared to manage a disaster when it occurs?
Based on what you have read, do you think the people in Myanmar have demonstrated community resilience?