Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the millions of people affected by recent devastating floods across Southeast Asia. Speaking on Sunday during the Angelus prayer in St Peters Square, Pope offered prayers for the victims and urged the international community to respond with meaningful humanitarian support.
Severe flooding and landslides caused by weeks of heavy rain have resulted in widespread destruction. According to local reports, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives. Indonesia has recorded 883 deaths, Sri Lanka 486, Thailand 185, and Malaysia three. Many communities remain isolated and rescue operations are ongoing.
“I am close to the peoples of South and Southeast Asia, who have been severely tested by the recent natural disasters,” Pope said. He prayed for grieving families and thanked those working tirelessly in rescue and relief efforts. He also appealed to governments, organizations, and individuals to show concrete gestures of solidarity toward the affected regions.
Local Church communities have already begun responding to the disaster. Capuchin friars in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, have opened their monasteries to families left homeless by the floods. Fr Yoseph Norbert Sinaga, Provincial Superior of the Capuchin Friars in Sibolga, told Vatican media that although the worst of the flooding has passed, the emergency is far from over.
Many villages remain buried under mud and debris, and close to 900 people are still missing in Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Survivors are facing shortages of clean water, electricity, and basic supplies. “We are suffering from the lack of water and electricity, but above all, the lack of drinking water is a serious problem,” Fr Sinaga said.
He added that while immediate relief is urgently needed, long term support will also be essential. “Now our brothers and sisters need immediate help. Later, we will also try to help rebuild their homes,” he said.
Humanitarian organizations and local authorities continue to coordinate relief efforts as affected communities struggle to recover from one of the most deadly flood disasters to hit the region in recent years.