On 28 March 2025, at 12:50 a.m. Myanmar Standard Time, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck between Mandalay and Sagaing, followed by a strong aftershock of 6.4 magnitude just over an hour later. The quake caused widespread devastation across Mandalay, Sagaing, Nay Pyi Taw, Bago, and surrounding regions, leading to severe destruction of homes, infrastructure, and heritage sites.
The disaster claimed an estimated 5,449 lives, injured 11,404 people, and left 549 missing. More than 500 deaths were linked to the collapse of religious buildings, while over 8,300 pagodas, monasteries, and other religious sites were damaged beyond repair. Millions were displaced, and essential infrastructure—including roads, power supply systems, hospitals, and schools—suffered heavy damage. The earthquake also inflicted serious losses on Myanmar’s cultural and historical heritage, presenting enormous challenges for recovery and rehabilitation.
Just two days after the quake, on 30 March, leaders of the Ayeyarwady Foundation arrived in Mandalay and Sagaing to coordinate rapid relief operations. Emergency supplies—including food, clean drinking water, and financial assistance—were delivered swiftly to affected communities. The Foundation collaborated closely with local social organizations, volunteer groups, and NGOs, leading and supporting search, rescue, and relief operations.
Particular attention was given to communities that were most severely affected, including monasteries, nunneries, and neighborhoods where residents faced acute hardships. The Foundation provided direct financial assistance, food, and water, while also supporting the repair and rebuilding of essential community institutions. Assistance was extended across different regions and groups—for example, in Amarapura Township’s Bone-Oo village in Mandalay, as well as for residents in Min Lan Ward, Sagaing Township.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Foundation worked with senior medical staff at Mandalay General Hospital, Kandawnadi General Hospital, Mandalay Orthopaedic Hospital, and Sagaing General Hospital to establish temporary hospitals and ensure continued treatment of patients.
Relief efforts included:
The earthquake caused major structural damage in both Mandalay and Sagaing. The Ayeyarwady Foundation organized large-scale debris removal and repair operations, including:
The Foundation committed over 10 billion kyats towards rehabilitation projects, including rebuilding essential infrastructure and supporting long-term recovery. Max Cement donated cement for restoration works, while additional supplies were provided at subsidized prices to ensure accessibility for affected families.
Through these combined efforts—emergency relief, healthcare support, religious site restoration, debris clearance, and reconstruction—the Ayeyarwady Foundation reaffirmed its mission to stand alongside Myanmar’s people in their darkest hours and to help communities rebuild stronger after disaster.
Behind every number lies a story of compassion and resilience. Thanks to the generosity of corporate partners, individual donors, and community supporters, the Ayeyarwady Foundation mobilized 27.14 billion MMK to respond to the earthquake. Within months, 27.13 billion MMK had already been channeled into relief and rebuilding.
The largest contribution of 19B MMK was made by AYA Bank PCL, supported by the Max Myanmar Group of Companies and nearly 500 external donors who came forward in solidarity.
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