Domestic News Updates – April 01, 2025 Morning
๐๐ 1. NUG Foreign Minister Extends Best Wishes to Muslims on Eid al-Fitr
On March 31, in commemoration of the sacred occasion of Eid al-Fitr, NUG Foreign Minister Daw Zin Mar Aung extended her heartfelt wishes to all Muslims, near and far.
She conveyed her prayers for all Muslims to be blessed with peace of mind and good health during this auspicious time.
Additionally, she expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of many Muslim worshippers who perished as martyrs when a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar last Friday, coinciding with their congregational prayers. The disaster caused the collapse of religious structures, leading to numerous casualties. She shared her condolences with the bereaved families and prayed for divine strength to be granted to them.
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๐๐ 2. Myanmar’s Refusal to Allow Taiwanese Rescue Workers and Equipment Is Regrettable, Says Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation
Union Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Dr. Tu Khawng, expressed disappointment on March 31 over Myanmar’s refusal to allow Taiwanese rescue experts and equipment into the country.
"In humanitarian efforts, politics should be set aside. It is deeply regrettable that Taiwan’s rescue professionals and equipment are being denied entry. Right now, more than politics, what matters is rescuing those still trapped under the rubble as quickly as possible. Skilled personnel, machinery, and technological support are crucial for this. Rather than having crowds gather without effective action, we urgently need assistance from international experts," he stated.
He further emphasized the importance of international media coverage to mobilize swift humanitarian aid. "Blocking access to international media only worsens the plight of those affected," he added.
The NUG is reportedly making all possible arrangements to assist earthquake-affected residents in its controlled territories.
"The people of Myanmar, under the rule of incompetent authorities, have suffered twice—first with Cyclone Nargis and now with this earthquake. It is truly heartbreaking," the minister lamented.
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๐๐ 3. JICA Team Arrives in Myanmar to Assist with Earthquake Relief Efforts
A Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) team arrived in Yangon on March 31 to support recovery efforts following the devastating earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28.
On March 30, the Japanese government decided to send an initial group of disaster response experts through JICA to assess the situation on the ground. The team consists of five members, including JICA officials and medical professionals, who will evaluate the immediate needs and security conditions before coordinating the deployment of Japan Disaster Relief (JDR) teams.
Furthermore, the Japanese government has committed to providing emergency relief supplies, including essential items for affected communities, through JICA.
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๐๐ 4. UN and Partner Organizations Pledge $15 Million in Initial Emergency Aid
The United Nations (UN) and its humanitarian partners have pledged an initial $15 million in emergency funding to assist those affected by the earthquake in Myanmar, according to a statement from UN Myanmar.
"We stand in solidarity with all those impacted by this heartbreaking disaster. Our deepest sympathies go out to them," said Mr. Marcoluigi Corsi, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator (Interim) for Myanmar.
The pledged funds are being used to procure emergency medical supplies, shelter materials, essential personal hygiene items, and food aid.
Despite logistical challenges, particularly in Mandalay and surrounding areas, efforts are being made to ensure aid reaches those in urgent need.
"In the coming weeks, much more assistance will be required. The people of Myanmar desperately need the unwavering support of the international community now more than ever," Mr. Corsi emphasized.
The UN has also urged unrestricted access for humanitarian convoys, medical personnel, and assessment teams to all disaster-affected areas, regardless of territorial control or restrictions.
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๐๐ 5. Indonesia Sends Humanitarian Aid to Myanmar’s Earthquake Victims
Members of the Indonesian Air Force, along with officials from the National Mitigation Agency, have prepared humanitarian aid for Myanmar’s earthquake victims. The supplies were loaded onto a Hercules C-130 transport aircraft at Jakarta’s Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base on March 31, according to reports.
The Indonesian Search and Rescue Team (INASAR) is set to depart for Myanmar on April 1, with aid supplies scheduled for delivery on April 3, as stated by Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
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๐๐ 6. Ko Htein Lin Appeals for an End to Aerial Bombings on Humanitarian Grounds
Ko Htein Lin, the youngest son of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, issued a heartfelt plea on March 31, calling for an immediate halt to aerial bombings in Myanmar on humanitarian grounds.
“I met with Burmese families in Fort Wayne today. We all share deep sorrow and concern for the people of Myanmar. The loss of lives, the suffering of those left without aid or shelter, and the desperate struggle of survivors trapped beneath the rubble—it is truly heartbreaking.
At this very moment, as rescue efforts are underway to save those affected by the earthquake, the military continues to bomb civilians. Media outlets are reporting these attacks in real time. This is utterly inhumane.
I appeal to the military with compassion—please stop the aerial bombings at this critical time. Stop blocking international and organizational humanitarian aid," Ko Htein Lin urged.
Donations from Burmese families are being channeled through Aid to Burma to support those affected by the earthquake. “This is a time to save lives,” he emphasized.
Between March 28 and 30, the military carried out 11 airstrikes, resulting in the deaths of 10 innocent civilians.
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๐๐ 7. "Earthquake Disaster Relief Campaign" Raises Over 800 Million MMK in Three Days
Within just three days of launching, the "Earthquake Disaster Relief Campaign" raised over 800 million MMK, which is being rapidly disbursed by SCF to ensure timely aid delivery, according to an official statement.
Contributions poured in from donors using platforms such as Spring Development Bank, Aung Lan Lottery, Spring Crowd Fund, and the Nway Oo Public Fund. The campaign organizers expressed gratitude for the continued donations and support.
To date, funds have been successfully transferred to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management - NUG in three phases: 200 million MMK in the first round, 250 million MMK in the second, and 270 million MMK in the third.
SCF has also announced that contributions will continue to be accepted until April 11, urging supporters to donate with confidence.
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๐๐ 8. TCSOs to Donate 22 Million MMK in Solidarity with Disaster Victims
The Ta'ang Civil Society Organizations (TCSOs) have pledged a donation of 22 million MMK to assist communities affected by the earthquake, affirming their commitment to standing with the victims through difficult times.
In response to the widespread devastation, TCSOs have reiterated their dedication to humanitarian assistance and are actively mobilizing relief efforts.
Additionally, donation centers will be established in six Ta'ang regions—Namkham, Kutkai, Namhsan, Kyaukme, Mogok, and Namtu—to facilitate contributions from both domestic and international donors. TCSOs are calling on their allies and the public to join hands in supporting the affected communities under the "People to People" initiative.
This report was compiled by Radio NUG correspondents Min Thihan and Min Sitt Thway.
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