STATEMENT ON THE MYANMAR EARTHQUAKE AND CALL TO ACTION
The Board of Directors, members, and staff of the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) extend their deepest condolences to the people of Myanmar for the significant loss of life and property caused by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Central Myanmar on March 28. The earthquake’s impact was also felt in other ASEAN countries, including Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.
In response, USABC joins the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the American Chamber of Commerce Myanmar (AmCham Myanmar) in a TriRelief Coalition, calling on member companies and the broader American business community to provide immediate in-kind relief for emergency response, as well as financial contributions to support long-term rebuilding efforts.
The suggested list of high-priority in-kind donations includes:
Medical supplies and equipment: first aid kits, antiseptics, essential medicines, diagnostic devices, oxygen concentrators, surgical tools
Food: non-perishable goods, baby formula, nutritional supplements
Shelter materials: tents, tarpaulins, blankets, sleeping mats
Hygiene items: soap, sanitary products, diapers, water purification supplies
The American private sector stands united and resolute in assisting the people of Myanmar through this humanitarian disaster. Our Yangon-based partners at AmCham Myanmar are well-positioned to deliver aid effectively and efficiently to disaster-affected communities through their strong network of thoroughly vetted independent local NGOs. These efforts will be conducted in consultation with the U.S. Embassy in Yangon and seek to complement the U.S. Government’s official disaster response in Myanmar. Member companies wishing to provide aid through this channel should contact service@amchammyanmar.com.
Additionally, USABC welcomes regional and international efforts to support Myanmar’s earthquake victims through ASEAN, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and United Nations mechanisms. Members interested in partnering with these entities should reach out to Jack Myint at jmyint@usasean.org.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Myanmar and all those in ASEAN affected by this disaster.
Ted Osius, Ambassador (ret.)
President & CEO
US-ASEAN Business Council
