On the Net

with Chris Goh

In times of crisis, the Net can help

Just as we were ready to enjoy the leftover ham and watch the Boxing Day test, an underwater earthquake off Indonesia and it subsequent tsunami has caused the greatest catastrophe of modern time. The first column for 2005 is dedicated in giving you links to important information on the disaster-affected areas, including a list of well-known, reputable charities now helping those devastated by this monstrous calamity.

www.dfat.gov.au/tsunami.html

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has offered a sterling and swift response to the disaster. There are phone numbers for concerned relatives to call and details on what the government is doing to help, from the grim task of victim identification to the latest tragic toll. It also has links to other sites, including www.tsunamiassist.gov.au - a 'one-stop shop' on the disaster launched on Tuesday.

www.familylinks.icrc.org/home.nsf/home/webfamilylinks

The Red Cross needs no introduction when it comes to helping people around the world, especially in times of disaster and war.  One of their great services is this family link website, which helps friends and family search for people lost in disaster or conflict.  They've set up a dedicated service for Tsunami victims. There's is no doubt that government agencies could learn something from the Red Cross when it comes to helping distraught family members.

www.ndmindia.nic.in

The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs' national disaster management centre has the latest situation reports, although as yet has not released a casualty list online.

www.news.lk & www.slmfa.gov.lk

The Sri Lankan Government's information department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are two primary sites that includes details on getting more information on relatives. Judging by the load times, a lot of people are seeking information.

www.presidencymaldives.gov.mv/v3/index.phtml

The President's site for the Republic of Maldives has practical and up-to-date information on this tiny island nation. It includes an update casualty list with details and contact information.

www.ems.narenthorn.thaigov.net/tsunami/login.php & www.thaigov.go.th/index-eng.htm

The Thai Government has set up a website that lists causalities and the deceased and is one of better information services available for family and friends. The login for the database requires a username 'user' and the password is 'password'. It's in Thai.

www.deplu.go.id

Indonesia is facing the sad reality that it will suffer the highest death toll of any country in the northern province of Aceh, which was closest to the quake's epicentre. The Department of Foreign Affairs in the Republic of Indonesia has a list of useful contacts.

www.and.nic.in

Andaman and Nicabar Islands are Indian territories, with a population of around 350,000 people, and already 73 lives have been lost. That would be like Australia losing 4000 people.

www.penang.gov.my/tsunami.html

Penang and Kedah were the worst hit states in Malaysia. The main government website has stories of Prime Ministerial visits, but don't really list any handy information that is handy. The Penang government has a dedicated page but you need to speak Bahasa to understand.

www.mofa.gov.mm & www.myanmar.com - myanmarnews.net (independent newspaper)

Myanmar (better known as Burma, and renamed in 1988) has been tight-lipped about the tsunami's impact. The best way to find out about relatives is definitely to go through DFAT and they will know doubt work through their Consulate in Yangon.

Charities

www.redcross.org.au/default.asp

Red Cross Australia has raised over $10 million in pledges and support from Australians. Red Cross has done tremendous work over the years and you're guaranteed that your money is used effectively. You can also ring 1800 811 700 to make a donation.

www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/www_sa.nsf

The Salvation Army, like the Red Cross, has done great things around the world. For online donations the above points to the US site where the funds are being pulled together. You can also ring 13 32 30 to make a phone donation.

www.unicef.org.au

UNICEF - the UN's Children's Fund - was founded by the United Nations in 1946 and has been a key supporter of UN initiatives for relief, including trying to get safe drinking water for the millions who've thus far survived this disaster. They also have an extensive program for children, who account for one third the victims of the tsunami. Donate online or call 1300 134 071.

Beware

Police are investigating a website - www.incybernet.com, hosted in Tasmania - that says it supports the Red Cross while collecting funds for tsunami victims. It seems the worst of times can also bring out the worst in people and already there are plenty of scammers about, trying to take advantage of people's generosity. Please ensure that your donations count by donating to registered charities.