In a groundbreaking effort to aid in disaster relief, Singapore has deployed a team of 10 cockroach robots to Myanmar as part of "Operation Lion Heart," a search and rescue initiative following a devastating earthquake that struck on March 28, 2025. This marks the first instance of insect-hybrid robots being utilized in a real-world humanitarian operation globally, showcasing a novel approach to disaster response.
According to a report by the Straits Times on April 5, 2025, these cockroach robots, developed by the Home Team Science and Technology Agency in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University and Klass Engineering & Solutions, are equipped with infrared cameras and sensors. The robots are based on Madagascar hissing cockroaches, which measure between 5 to 7.5 cm in length. Their small size allows them to navigate through tight spaces and rubble where human rescuers cannot reach.
"The mission here makes us want to continue improving technology to find survivors faster," said Yap Kian Wee, one of the engineers overseeing the robot team. The robots were first deployed on March 31, 2025, and again in Naypyidaw on April 2, 2025, although they have not yet located any survivors. Despite the challenges, the team remains optimistic about the technology's potential.
"The testing in Singapore is very different from the real-world conditions here, and we have encountered some technical issues," noted Ong Ka Hing, another engineer. "However, these will be valuable lessons for future deployments." The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.7 and was centered near Mandalay, has resulted in a tragic human toll, with reports indicating that over 3,354 people have died, 4,850 have been injured, and 220 remain missing as of April 5.
In response to the earthquake's devastation, Myanmar's Minister of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Soe Win, expressed deep gratitude to the international search and rescue teams during a ceremony dedicated to thanking those who have come to Myanmar's aid. He emphasized that the presence of international teams is a testament to solidarity and humanitarian spirit during difficult times.
"The community's support is a beacon of hope for us," Soe Win stated. "A total of 99 relief flights have arrived in Myanmar, carrying 1,797 rescue personnel and 714 tons of relief goods. We are incredibly grateful for the support from teams from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, who have quickly come to stand with us. Your tireless efforts not only save lives but also bring comfort and hope to families enduring unimaginable loss. Your dedication reminds us all that humanity is strongest when united in adversity."
As of April 6, 2025, search teams have successfully rescued eight survivors and recovered the bodies of 172 victims from the rubble in areas severely affected by the earthquake, including Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing. The Vietnamese People's Army, which has been actively involved in rescue operations, has also concluded its search efforts and is preparing to return home.
On the same day, the Vietnamese rescue team reported that they had discovered and recovered 28 bodies and rescued one person. They participated in two meetings with Myanmar’s Department of Rescue and Relief, chaired by Minister Soe Win, who expressed his thanks for their efforts.
"Our team has faced challenges, but we have worked closely with the Myanmar government to ensure that we provide the best possible assistance," said a Vietnamese team leader. The Vietnamese forces have been praised not only by Myanmar but also by other international rescue teams for their dedication and effectiveness during the operation.
However, the situation remains dire. Rainfall in some areas of Myanmar over the weekend threatens to complicate ongoing rescue efforts and increase the risk of disease outbreaks among survivors who are currently camping outdoors. State media reported that the death toll has risen to 3,471, with 4,671 injuries and 214 individuals still unaccounted for.
Tom Fletcher, the UN relief director, voiced concerns on social media about the living conditions of survivors. "Families are sleeping outside the ruins of their homes while the bodies of their loved ones are being recovered from the rubble. There are real fears of further earthquakes," he stated, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and strong response to save as many lives as possible.
Neighboring countries, including China and India, have also stepped up, sending aid and rescue teams to assist in recovery efforts. The United States has pledged at least $9 million in aid to Myanmar to support affected communities, although the recent dissolution of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is reported to have impacted the country’s ability to provide assistance.
In a tragic development, rescue forces in Myanmar discovered the body of Sili Mee, Miss Tourism Myanmar 2018, under the rubble of the Sky Villa apartment building in Mandalay on April 2, 2025. The earthquake has not only caused widespread destruction but has also taken a toll on the nation’s cultural fabric.
As rescue operations continue, the international community remains hopeful that the efforts will bring relief to those affected by this natural disaster. The collaborative spirit demonstrated by various countries in response to this crisis highlights the importance of unity in the face of adversity.
As the situation evolves, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and arduous, but with continued support and innovation, there is hope for the people of Myanmar.
