HONG KONG – The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government on Saturday dispatched a 51-strong team to assist in the search and rescue work in the earthquake-stricken areas of Myanmar.

The team comprises officers from the Security Bureau, the Fire Services Department, the Immigration Department and the Hospital Authority, according to the government.

The death toll from the magnitude 7.9 earthquake reached 1,002. Also, 2,376 people were injured and 30 are still missing as of Saturday, according to the Information Team of Myanmar's State Administration Council.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau and other officials attended a flag presentation ceremony in the afternoon before the search and rescue team’s departure.

READ MORE: Myanmar quake death toll tops 1,000 amid frantic rescue efforts

In a social media post earlier in the day, the CE announced that the HKSAR government would deploy a team to Myanmar’s earthquake-stricken area to assist in its search and rescue operations.

“The search and rescue team will do their utmost to help save lives on the ground,” he wrote in the post.

Expressing condolences to the quake victims on behalf of all Hong Kong people and the government, Lee said his government would provide the rescue team the support they need to ensure they complete their task safely and smoothly.

“Upon receiving the order, this group of elite rescuers quickly assembled and will head to the disaster area in a short period of time, demonstrating their selfless and professional spirit,” he wrote.

Pointing out that the current situation in the disasters-stricken area of Myanmar is still unstable, the CE said the rescue team must make full preparations and pay attention to their own safety.

ALSO READ: Xi extends condolences to Myanmar leader over earthquake

The Immigration Department said it would continue to monitor the situation and work with Chinese Embassies in Thailand and Myanmar.

And the Security Bureau noted the yellow travel alert for Myanmar and Thailand remains in force, urging people planning to visit the two countries to prioritize their safety and stay informed.