Resilience in Crisis: 5BB’s 24-Hour Earthquake Recovery
Yangon, Myanmar — [22.4.2025]
In the wake of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay and Naypyidaw,
5BB Broadband, one of Myanmar’s leading fixed broadband internet service providers,
successfully restored 70% of its network within 24 hours and achieved 100% recovery in
72 hours of the disaster.
The earthquake caused widespread destruction across central Myanmar, disrupting essential
infrastructure including power lines, roads, and telecommunications. 5BB’s core infrastructure
was significantly impacted:
- Change Upper Myanmar Network operations Centre located in Mandalay experienced partial failure
- Both the main and redundant fiber cables were severed due to building collapses, ground cracks, and widespread electricity cuts
Despite these severe challenges, 5BB’s strong strategic foundation, robust disaster
recovery protocol, and resilient network architecture enabled a rapid and coordinated
national response.
Preparedness in Action
“Our network design is built with resilience at its core,” said Thit Sane, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of 5BB. “We’ve invested in well-structured infrastructure and scalable deployment practices. These allowed us to make timely, effective decisions the moment the disaster hit.”
Technical teams and engineers across 5BB’s headquarters and regional offices mobilized
immediately—working around the clock to assess damage, reroute connections, and deploy
temporary solutions. Their efforts were backed with 100% operational support from senior
leadership.
Resilience Beyond Infrastructure
What made this recovery even more remarkable was the unwavering spirit of 5BB employees—many of whom were themselves victims of the earthquake.
“Some of our engineers lost their homes. Others experienced severe damage,” said Than Zaw
Aung, General Manager (GM) of 5BB. “Yet, they showed up—working through the rubble,
fatigue, and emotional trauma to bring our network back online. Their dedication is truly heroic.”
Emergency Support for the Community
Beyond restoring connectivity, 5BB took immediate steps to support the affected communities. The company:- Opened its internal broadband network as public Wi-Fi access points in keyemergency zones
- Expanded diesel generator supply to power charging stations—allowing residents to recharge phones and essential devices
- Provided real-time network access to emergency responders, rescue teams, and affected families to enable life-saving communication
“These emergency services weren’t just technical—they were human,” added the CTO. “In
moments of crisis, the smallest act—like helping someone recharge a phone—can make a
world of difference.”
A Promise Kept
In just 24 hours, 5BB restored over 70% of its network. Within 100 hours, 100% service availability had returned to all affected areas.
This was more than a technical milestone. It was a demonstration of purpose—of a promise
kept when it mattered most.
“Our subscribers needed us more than ever,” said the GM. “And we stood by them—every
second, every hour, every step of the way.”