OCBC donates S$50,000 to support emergency relief efforts in Myanmar

In response to the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar, local bank OCBC has pledged S$50,000 to support emergency relief efforts in affected communities.

The donation, made through the Singapore Red Cross, aims to provide essential supplies such as food, water, blankets, and hygiene kits to those in need.

In a media release dated Apr. 1, OCBC Group Chief Executive Officer Helen Wong said:

“We are deeply saddened by the significant loss of lives and damage caused by the devastating earthquake. Our hearts go out to those who have lost their loved ones and homes. We hope our donation will help those affected in some way.”

Beyond financial aid, OCBC has launched a staff support programme to assist its Myanmar-based staff and their families, ensuring their well-being during this crisis.

Facilitating public donations

To further aid relief efforts, OCBC will enable its customers to contribute to the cause through its banking channels.

Starting from Apr. 3, customers can make donations via ATMs, internet banking, and mobile banking, with all funds directed to the Singapore Red Cross.

Largest quake ever to hit Myanmar in more than a century

An earthquake struck central Myanmar on Mar. 28, collapsing buildings and destroying a historic bridge.

The 7.7-magnitude earthquake was the largest quake to hit Myanmar in more than a century, reported CNN.

More than 1,600 people have been killed and thousands more injured, BBC reported.

Tremors were felt as far away as Bangkok, where at least nine people have died and 49 remain missing.

Bangkok has since been declared a disaster area by the Thai government.

As search and rescue efforts continue, aftershocks continue to shake Myanmar, the strongest so far, measuring at a magnitude of 6.7.

These aftershocks could continue for months, a geologist told CNN.

In total, the death toll in Myanmar could exceed 10,000, according to predictive modelling by the U.S. Geological Service.

Singaporeans are advised to defer all travel to Myanmar in the meantime, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Top image credit: Singapore Red Cross.