SINGAPORE – A contingent of 80 officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) has crossed borders to assist with rescue efforts in earthquake-stricken Myanmar, even at the expense of their own Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. The team, which includes more than half Muslim officers, left for Myanmar on 29 March 2024, shortly after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit the country, resulting in over 2,700 fatalities.
Minister’s Heartfelt Thanks
During a recent visit to the Ahmad Ibrahim Mosque, Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam praised the sacrificial spirit of the SCDF members. “It’s a very noble act to go out there and help other people far away,” he stated. Expressing his gratitude, he acknowledged the families of these officers for their sacrifices during this festive time.
Rescue Operations Underway
- The SCDF team has completed rescue operations across 13 sites.
- Key rescues include a man freed from a collapsed building after an eight-hour operation.
- Colonel Tay Zhi Wei, team leader, emphasised the ‘72-hour window‘ for rescues—a period crucial for survival.
On 1 April 2024, Col Tay reported the extraction of one more survivor, a 60-year-old woman, illustrating that opportunities for saving lives extend beyond the initial critical hours.
Continuous Efforts Despite Challenges
Col Tay recounted their experiences responding to complex situations, like aiding local fire services. “When we arrived on scene, we called out to the casualty, and to our surprise, he was able to respond,” he shared. He noted that their morale was uplifted by successful rescues, reinforcing their commitment to continue operations as long as there’s a chance to save lives.
Messages of Support
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong also recognised the SCDF’s efforts, extending thanks on 31 March 2024. In his post, he affirmed their dedication, underscoring the pride Singaporeans feel for the team’s contribution during such difficult times.
As these brave men and women work tirelessly to aid those affected by disaster, they also carry with them the thoughts and well wishes of residents back home, reminding us all of the spirit of community and compassion.