Baznas Calls on Indonesians to Support Earthquake Recovery Efforts in Myanmar
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has appealed to Indonesians to show solidarity and support for fellow Muslims affected by the devastating earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake claimed the lives of over 3,300 people and left more than 5,000 injured.
The earthquake also caused significant damage to the region’s mosques, with more than 50 mosques collapsing, many of which were destroyed while worshippers were performing Friday prayers.
“This is a deeply concerning disaster. Many of our fellow Muslims have lost their places of worship, even their lives. We at Baznas, on behalf of the Indonesian people, feel compelled to help them rise again,” said Baznas Chairman Noor Achmad in a statement issued in Jakarta on Saturday.
Achmad emphasized that Baznas will take swift action to support recovery efforts, particularly focusing on the rebuilding and reconstruction of the damaged mosques. He highlighted that these efforts will take into account the post-disaster conditions as well as the security and political situation in Myanmar, which remains challenging.
“As soon as possible, we will begin rebuilding the destroyed places of worship. However, we must wait for a more conducive situation so the process can proceed safely and smoothly,” he stated.
In the initial phase of support, Baznas has deployed a humanitarian team, which includes members from the Baznas Disaster Response Team (BTB) and medical personnel from the Baznas Health Clinic (RSB), to help accelerate the recovery efforts. Additionally, the agency has sent 16,000 aid packages, weighing 19.7 tons and valued at approximately Rp2.5 billion (about US$150,963), to assist the affected communities in Myanmar.
“The Baznas humanitarian team, part of the Indonesia Search and Rescue Team (INASAR), has arrived at the location and is immediately assisting the victims,” Achmad added.
Baznas also called on the Indonesian public to contribute to the recovery process by making donations, with Achmad stressing that public support will play a crucial role in rebuilding the damaged mosques and easing the burden on the affected Muslim communities in Myanmar.
“Support from the Indonesian people means a lot to our brothers and sisters who are facing this disaster. May our concern be a way for them to rise again,” he concluded.
