Singaporeans offer sympathy and prayers

An RSAF C130 Hercules aircraft took off at noon yesterday to help search for flight MH370, as political leaders and the public united to pray for those on board the missing jet and their families.

Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said his ministry would also offer a submarine support-and-rescue vessel and divers to perform underwater searches and "assist in the search-and-locate operations".

The C130 is a transport aircraft with search-and-locate functions.

Meanwhile #PrayforMH370 was the most trended hashtag on local Twitter feeds, with netizens sending virtual prayers for the 227 passengers and 12 crew members.

Facebook user Cheryn Chow said: "My heart is heavy after hearing such news, I hope that a miracle can happen. Let's pray regardless of religion."

Political leaders also expressed their hopes on social media, which faded with every passing hour.

At 5pm, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong tweeted that he had spoken to Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak to express his sympathy and extend Singapore's help.

Law and Foreign Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam posted on Facebook: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the people on board."

National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan wrote: "Odds are against them, but still let's hope for miracle."

Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.