The 7.9 earthquake that rocked Sichuan Province of China — killing more than 10,000 and injuring thousands more — on the heels of the devastating cyclone in Myanmar will add to the growing call for international relief.

China took the right course with a swift response. President Hu Jintao ordered an "all out" effort, sending soldiers and relief supplies to the hardest-hit areas within hours.

The U.S. stepped up with immediate aid offers.

The Chinese government's response is a stark contrast to Myanmar's authoritarian regime, which has raised international outrage by hindering access to the country. The junta's response is unconscionable. The death toll there has already passed 32,000, with United Nations' estimates between 62,000 to 100,000 dead. And fears of widespread disease due to the lack of fresh water and medical supplies have made matters far worse.

Now more than ever, we are part of a global community — international efforts to ease the suffering from such disasters bring us together.

Particularly in Hawai'i, with our proximity and close ties to Asia, these relief efforts are all the more important.

Now is the time to reach out and help.