Members of the Myanmar Red Cross Society attend an event to mark World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day in Yangon, Myanmar, May 8, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe)

YANGON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Members of the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) gathered in Yangon and other regions across Myanmar on Friday to commemorate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, highlighting the role of volunteers in humanitarian work and disaster response.

This year's global theme, "United in Humanity," honors volunteers and staff who stand alongside communities during times of crisis.

Events held in Yangon, Mandalay and other regions brought together MRCS members and volunteers to celebrate humanitarian service, recognize volunteers, and encourage young people to join humanitarian activities.

Among those honored was U Than Aye, 63, who joined the MRCS in 1977. Over nearly five decades, he has participated in rescue operations, humanitarian assistance and blood donation drives, donating blood 111 times.

At the event, he received a certificate of honor for his contributions to blood donation. "I participated in rescue and humanitarian work during natural disasters such as floods and storms, as well as blood donation activities," he told Xinhua.

He said World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day has long been an important occasion for members across the country to gather and strengthen solidarity.

"The commemoration event helps strengthen solidarity and allows members to get to know each other," he said.

He also encouraged young people to take part in volunteer work.

"Volunteering is a social service. As a member, you have the opportunity to help people during disasters," he added.

In Yangon, Ma Thida Lwin, 39, a deputy company officer from the MRCS, attended the event with fellow members. She said volunteering had shaped her understanding of emergency preparedness and humanitarian service.

"If a sudden incident happens, we are able to respond and help in emergency situations," she told Xinhua.

She joined the MRCS in the 1990s and has participated in rescue and humanitarian operations in Yangon and Mandalay. "I joined the MRCS because I am passionate about humanitarian activities and willing to help others."

She added that volunteers also provide first aid awareness during the hot season, including information on heatstroke prevention.

Addressing young people, she said volunteering benefits not only individuals but also communities and families.

U Kyaw Myint Aung, secretary of the Yangon Region Red Cross Supervisory Committee, described World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day as a meaningful occasion for members.

"We do not carry out humanitarian work expecting money in return. What we value is recognition from the public for the work of our volunteers," he said.

In Mandalay, U Kyaw Kyaw, secretary of Mandalay Region Red Cross Supervisory Committee, said events included awarding certificates to trainees who completed first aid courses and outstanding volunteers.

He highlighted the role of volunteers during and after the Mandalay earthquake that occurred in March last year, saying they rescued injured people, provided first aid and medical care, distributed relief supplies and built temporary shelters.

"We would like to convey the message that the Myanmar Red Cross Society will continue its social and humanitarian activities," he said.

Professor Tin Maung Hlaing, an executive committee member of MRCS, said the organization continues to work according to the Seven Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality and voluntary service.

He said humanitarian workers are facing growing challenges, including natural disasters, health crises, climate change and funding difficulties.

"Despite these difficulties, with humanitarian spirit and the support of communities, the Myanmar Red Cross Society continues its work," he said.

He also stressed the importance of young people in future humanitarian efforts. "We rely on youth and volunteers to support our future humanitarian work."

Referring to the March 2025 earthquake, he said Red Cross volunteers from other countries also came to Myanmar to assist in rescue and recovery operations, including helping victims rebuild their livelihoods.

For many disaster-affected communities, the assistance provided by the MRCS has brought both relief and emotional support.

Ma Zin Mar Lin, a resident of Amarapura township in Mandalay region, said her family received tarpaulins, hygiene kits, clothing, mosquito nets, food, and support for rebuilding homes after the earthquake.

"We also received psychological support from the members of the Myanmar Red Cross Society," she said.

"Because of the support I received, I now want to join and work with the Myanmar Red Cross Society," she added.