Singapore pledges S$67,500 for Papua New Guinea landslide relief

SINGAPORE: The Singapore government has announced a contribution of S$67,500 (US$50,000) through the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) to aid relief and recovery efforts in Papua New Guinea, following a devastating landslide.

In a letter dated 29 May, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan extended condolences to Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko over the tragic landslide that occurred on 24 May.

“I was deeply saddened by the incident,” wrote Dr Balakrishnan.

“On behalf of the Singapore Government, I convey my deepest condolences to the families of those affected.”

The landslide in the Enga province has left more than 2,000 people buried under debris and soil, with six bodies recovered so far.

The United Nations reported on 28 May that an estimated 7,849 people have been impacted by the disaster, many requiring evacuation and relocation.

The SRC had pledged an additional S$50,000 (US$37,000) earlier on 29 May.

The funds will be utilized to provide essential aid such as food, water, shelter, and trauma care, as stated in an SRC announcement.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic landslide that resulted in the devastating loss of lives and displacement of thousands,” said Mr Benjamin William, secretary-general and chief executive of the SRC.

The SRC will provide aid to the Papua New Guinea Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

These organizations are supporting the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, which is leading search and rescue operations.

Efforts include establishing an evacuation area, distributing relief items like jerrycans, and offering mental health support.

The SRC noted that challenging terrain and lack of electricity have significantly hampered relief efforts.

Moreover, with more rainfall predicted in the coming days, the death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.

In light of these ongoing needs, the SRC has also launched a public fundraising appeal.

“As we launch our fundraising efforts, we hope the people of Singapore will stand in unity with us to support communities in need,” Mr William urged.

Donations can be made online through the SRC’s donation portal.