KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 — Malaysia, via its embassies in Yangon and Bangkok, is closely monitoring the aftermath of the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and neighbouring Thailand today.
Preliminary checks indicate that no Malaysians have been injured.
The Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) said preliminary checks by the Malaysian Embassy in Yangon confirmed that all Malaysians were safe and unaffected. In Thailand, preliminary reports also confirmed that no Malaysians have been injured.
“Malaysians residing in or travelling through Myanmar and Thailand are advised to remain vigilant, stay informed through local authorities, and take all necessary safety precautions,” it said in a statement.
Malaysia, through Wisma Putra, extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the victims and families affected by the devastating earthquakes.
According to news reports, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.2 miles), as reported by the United States Geological Survey. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock struck the same area minutes later.
Tremors from both quakes were reportedly felt in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
In Myanmar, local media reported that a state of emergency has been declared in the regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Eastern Shan State, and the capital Naypyidaw, as authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage.
In Thailand, reports indicate that key transit systems — including the MRT, BTS, and Airport Rail Link in Bangkok — have been suspended following the tremors. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok as damage assessments are ongoing.
Meanwhile, Wisma Putra said that the Embassy of Malaysia in Bangkok, located at the Kronos Office Tower, has been temporarily sealed pending a safety assessment.
“Until further notice, Malaysians are advised to avoid approaching the existing embassy premises.
“In the event of an emergency or severe aftershock, Malaysians in Bangkok are advised to gather at the Embassy Complex next to Sathorn Garden, rather than the Kronos Sathorn Tower location,” it said.
— Bernama
