A special cargo plane from Pakistan, carrying the first phase of aid for Malaysia’s flood victims, landed safely at the MASKargo Terminal at approximately 4:30 pm today. The chartered flight departed from Islamabad International Airport at 5:30 am local time and brought with it 40 tonnes of essential supplies. These items included blankets, family tents, sleeping bags, life jackets, and mats, all intended to assist those affected by the widespread floods across Malaysia.
The aid shipment was part of a broader gesture of support from Pakistan, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously expressed his intention to help Malaysia during the crisis. This message of solidarity was communicated during a phone call on November 30, where Sharif not only conveyed his sympathy for the disaster but also assured Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Pakistan’s commitment to providing assistance.
Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, emphasized that the aid delivery reflects the strong bond between the two countries. He shared that upon hearing about the severe floods in several Malaysian states and the resulting devastation, Prime Minister Sharif immediately contacted Prime Minister Anwar to offer both sympathy and material support. Shah described this gesture as a token of solidarity with the Malaysian people during such a difficult time.
Shah also acknowledged the cooperation from various Malaysian agencies, particularly Wisma Putra and the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), for their prompt efforts in facilitating the aid’s arrival. He noted that Pakistan has often received help from Malaysia during its own natural disasters, and this delivery of assistance serves as a reminder of the deep and enduring relationship between the two nations.
The total amount of aid from Pakistan is 80 tonnes, with the first shipment of 40 tonnes already received and a second flight expected to arrive on December 11. NADMA’s Deputy Director-General (Operations), Meor Ismail Meor Akim, stated that the agency had worked closely with the National Disaster Management Authority of Pakistan, Wisma Putra, and other agencies to ensure the timely arrival of the aid.
