Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has issued a statement that expresses Singapore’s condolences towards Indonesia for its recent earthquake that struck Pidie Jaya Regency, Aceh on 7 December 2016 at 5.06am.
“Singapore is shocked by the tragic loss of lives and serious damage caused by the earthquake that struck Pidie Jaya Regency, Aceh on 7 December 2016. The Government of Singapore expresses our deepest condolences to the Government of Indonesia and the families of the victims in this time of grief.” MFA wrote.
The Ministry also said that it is in touch with the local authorities and Singapore stands ready to assist if required.
President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have written to President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo to offer their condolences over the disaster, saying that they are saddened by the incident.
Below are their letters in full:
Letter from President Tony Tan to President Joko Widodo
7 December 2016
His Excellency Joko Widodo
President
Republic of Indonesia
Your Excellency,On behalf of the people of Singapore, I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the earthquake in Pidie Jaya Regency, Aceh on 7 December 2016.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Indonesia during this difficult period.
Yours sincerely,
TONY TAN KENG YAM
—
Letter from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to President Joko Widodo
7 December 2016
Dear President Jokowi,I was saddened by the tragic loss of lives and widespread damage caused by the earthquake in Pidie Jaya Regency, Aceh on 7 December 2016.
On behalf of the government of Singapore, I express my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Singapore stands ready to assist Indonesia in whatever way we can.
Yours sincerely,
LEE HSIEN LOONG
His Excellency Joko Widodo
President
Republic of Indonesia