The Indonesian medical team arrives in Yangon on June 2. Pic: Hein Latt Aung

ONE good turn deserves another – and Indonesia, which gratefully received assistance from Myanmar for its own problems, has now come forward with aid for the victims of cyclone Nargis.

On June 2, a 30-member medical team and seven tons of medical supplies arrived at Yangon International Airport by Indonesian Air Force aircraft. This is the second consignment of Indonesian aid to arrive, following an initial shipment on May 9.

“We have had a very long relationship with Myanmar, and in this time of difficulty we have the chance to lend a helping hand,” said Indonesian charge d’affaires a.i. Philemon Arobaya.

“We are also all ASEAN members and we have to help each other. This relationship will be forever, not temporary,” he said.

“When the tsunami struck Indonesia, Myanmar helped us, especially the people of Yangon. When our embassy here arranged a charity golf game, many Myanmar people participated and we raised money to help people in need in my country. Now it’s time for us to do a good turn for Myanmar people.”

The Indonesian team will set up a temporary hospital and clinic, and send specialists to assist local hospitals and operate water purifiers for Nargis victims.

“Our medical team has brought medicines, blankets, kitchen equipment, oxygen tubes, examination tables, stethoscopes, thermometers and water purifying machines. The team will be based in Kawhmu township and will provide medical care to storm victims. We expect the mission will last about three weeks,” said the team’s leader, Professor Dr Mumar Lubis.