In a statement today, he said as a “manifestation of Malaysia’s responsibility as the Asean chair for 2025”, he has directed foreign minister Mohamad Hasan to lead a humanitarian mission to Myanmar next week.

“This visit aims to state Malaysia’s strong support for the ongoing search-and-rescue mission in Myanmar, including through a team from the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) that began its work today,” he said.

Earlier today, the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief team, comprising 50 members, left for Myanmar. They are expected to remain there for between seven and 14 days.

Anwar said as Asean chair, Malaysia will continue to coordinate aid to Myanmar with its Asean partners.

“Malaysia remains committed to strengthening regional unity and directing Asean’s humanitarian agenda, which is based on love, mutual responsibility and solidarity,” he said.

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday. Strong tremors were also felt in Thailand. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock occurred just minutes later.

A state of emergency was declared in the regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Eastern Shan State as well as Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, and Bangkok in Thailand.

Myanmar’s ruling junta was reported to have said yesterday that the death toll stood at over 1,600 people so far, with more than 3,400 injured, and at least 139 more missing.