KUALA LUMPUR: The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) yesterday rescued a man who had been trapped for 72 hours under rubble following the devastating earthquake in Sagaing, Myanmar.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today confirmed the successful rescue undertaken by the MAS-01 team.

He said the rescuers located the survivor, believed to be in his 40s, at 2pm yesterday beneath the ruins of a residential building along the Sagaing-Ta Da U road.

"SMART detected the survivor using specialised equipment. With the cooperation of local firefighters, they managed to extract him at 2.27pm.

"He was immediately transported by ambulance to the hospital for further treatment," he said in a statement.

The earthquake has so far claimed almost 3,000 lives, with many others still trapped and reported missing.

Zahid described the discovery as "a miracle," given that the victim had been trapped for more than three days.

The rescue mission also uncovered four bodies of victims who perished in the disaster, he said.

Zahid conveyed the Malaysian government's sympathy to the families of those affected.

"On behalf of the Malaysian government, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims. We pray that they find strength and resilience during this extremely difficult time."

Zahid also commended the dedication of SMART personnel, acknowledging the sacrifices they made to serve during the Aidilfitri celebrations.

"I extend my highest appreciation to the SMART team who willingly put duty before personal time with their families. This sacrifice is invaluable and reflects Malaysia's unwavering commitment to assisting the global community in times of crisis."

The government, he said, would continue monitoring the situation closely.

"The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), alongside relevant agencies, will ensure that all necessary aid is delivered efficiently. Malaysia remains steadfast in its commitment to assisting our neighbours in times of need," he said.

Sagaing was one of the hardest-hit areas in Myanmar, where the earthquake caused widespread destruction and loss of lives.

Rescue efforts are ongoing as teams race against time to locate more survivors.