A Smart team from Malaysia today rescued an injured man from the rubble after an earthquake hit Myanmar. (SMART pic)
PETALING JAYA: The Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights said it is vital for human rights to be upheld and aid to be distributed equitably to victims of the deadly earthquake in Myanmar, that also affected Thailand.
In a statement, AICHR said vulnerable and marginalised groups – including women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities – should be prioritised when it came to providing essential medical care and health care services.
“It is important that humanitarian assistance reaches all affected communities and areas equitably and indiscriminately without delay, with special attention to vulnerable and marginalised populations.”
The commission also urged the immediate facilitation of humanitarian access to all affected communities and areas without disruption and discrimination, in line with international humanitarian response principles.
AICHR praised the measures taken by numerous parties, including Asean member states and the UN to assist Myanmar.
“AICHR stands ready to work and collaborate with Asean sectoral bodies and entities, and the international community, pursuant to its mandate to provide any needed guidance, assistance and services to Myanmar and Thailand.”
AICHR’s statement follows reports that Myanmar’s ruling military junta was preventing humanitarian assistance from reaching earthquake survivors.
Earlier today, it was reported that the junta had rejected ceasefire proposals from rebel groups to allow for rescue operations.
Last Friday, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan state, Sagaing and Naypyidaw among the worst-affected areas.
The tremors also impacted neighbouring Thailand.
More than 2,000 people were reported to have died in Myanmar.
When contacted, Malaysia’s AICHR chairman Edmund Bon said there should be a humanitarian pause and ceasefire to let aid workers in and for relief efforts to be more effective.
“Bombing and fighting have to stop. Human rights need to be prioritised. Internet restrictions should also be lifted for a more open flow of information.”
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