Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: AFP

On 28 March 2025, a strong earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale shook the Sagaing region in Myanmar. The earthquake was so powerful that its tremors were felt in neighbouring countries like Thailand. In Thailand, some tall buildings swayed dangerously, causing panic among people who ran to open safety grounds. Thankfully, there were no deaths reported in Thailand.

Thousands Killed and Injured

In Myanmar, the earthquake caused huge destruction. More than 3,400 people lost their lives, and thousands more were injured. Houses fell down, roads cracked, and hospitals and schools were badly damaged. Many families lost their homes and belongings. Survivors had to live under open skies with no proper shelter. They needed food, clean water, blankets, and medical help to survive after this disaster.

Singaporeans Come Together to Help

Seeing the suffering of Myanmar’s people, Singaporeans came forward to help. A Singapore-based charity called Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) started a donation campaign with the Singapore Red Cross (SRC). This campaign was held from 2 April to 30 April 2025.
During this time, Singaporeans from all walks of life – students, workers, families, and community groups – donated money to support Myanmar’s people. The campaign raised a total of $200,000.

Funds Handed Over to Singapore Red Cross

On 12 July 2025, RLAF officially handed over this donation to the Singapore Red Cross. The money will be used to continue relief work in Myanmar. SRC will provide food, clean drinking water, blankets, and other essential items to families who have lost everything. They will also give medical help to the injured and support families mourning their loved ones.

Minister Praises the Kindness of Singaporeans

The handing-over ceremony was attended by Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, the Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, who is also the Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs. He praised both the RLAF and the SRC for their efforts.
He said, “This campaign shows the power of collaboration, compassion, and shared responsibility.” Mr Faishal added that he felt proud to see Singaporeans come together during times of crisis. He said, “People here did not think twice before donating. They know that when neighbours are in need, we must step forward and help them. This is what being human is about.”

Singapore’s Culture of Caring

Mr Faishal also said that this effort reflects Singapore’s national values. He explained, “We are a caring society. We do not only look after our people. We also help our neighbours when they are in trouble.” He praised the RLAF and SRC for leading such a meaningful mission to help Myanmar.
About Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation
The Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) is well known in Singapore for its charity work. The meaning of its name is “Blessings for All”. It often works with other organisations to help people in need, both in Singapore and in other countries. They believe in spreading kindness and help to everyone, no matter their race or religion.

About Singapore Red Cross

The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) is respected for its quick response during disasters. Since the Myanmar earthquake, SRC has been working in the worst-hit areas to rescue people, provide emergency support, and distribute relief items.

Earthquake’s Impact in Myanmar

Experts say that the Sagaing region of Myanmar lies on a major earthquake fault line, making it prone to strong earthquakes. This is why it is important for the country to build stronger houses and better infrastructure to survive such natural disasters in the future.

The earthquake destroyed thousands of houses. Many roads were blocked, making it hard for rescue teams to reach some villages. People had to live in open areas as they lost their homes and all their belongings.

Students and Families Donate Generously

In Singapore, the donation campaign brought people together. Schools and mosques encouraged students and worshippers to donate. Children gave their pocket money, and some families donated in memory of their loved ones. Companies also organised charity drives among employees.
One student who donated said, “I feel sad seeing people suffering in Myanmar. They have lost their homes. I gave part of my savings to help them. I hope they get food and shelter soon.”

Another woman said, “We are safe here, but they are not. We must help them as humans.”

A Big Helping Hand for Myanmar

The Singapore Red Cross said that with these donations, they will continue relief work and help in rebuilding efforts. Their teams are working with local groups in Myanmar to identify the worst-hit areas and send help where it is most needed.

Humanity Has No Borders

This campaign has shown that humanity has no borders. When people see others in pain, they come together, forgetting differences of country or language. Singaporeans have once again proved that even though their country is small, their hearts are big.

The earthquake may have destroyed buildings, but it could not destroy the spirit of people who are ready to help and support each other in difficult times. As Mr Faishal said, “It is our shared responsibility to stand by our neighbours. This is what makes us truly human.”