Myanmar’s political instability rendered it unprepared for the calamity.

• Myanmar’s 7.7-magnitude earthquake has claimed over 1,600 lives, with the death toll rising from hundreds to over a thousand in 24 hours.

• The number of injured is around 3,400.

• Infrastructure damage is massive, with densely populated cities like Mandalay and Naypyitaw left without electricity.

• Hospitals are overwhelmed, and people are camping in the streets.

• Myanmar’s neighbours, including India, China, and Thailand, have sent aid.

• Myanmar’s seismically active region is responsible for most earthquakes in the region.

• The quake brings back memories of the 7.8 magnitude quake in Türkiye and Syria in 2023.

• The quake’s damage is irreversible and recovery will take months.

• Myanmar’s political instability since the 2021 coup offers an opportunity to push for political stability, fostering investment, attracting expertise, and ensuring better regulatory enforcement.