The disaster in Southeast Asia
The disaster in Southeast Asia touches us all. Areas, which were already very poor has been affected by incomprehensible destruction. An as yet unknown but overwhelming number of lives have been claimed, innumerable lives have been shattered.
Not only people living in the affected areas, but also many tourists, and among them thousands of Swedes have been affected.
Swedish Match has significant operations in the affected countries with production facilities in both Indonesia and India. According to accessible information, no local employees, their homes, or their working sites have been hurt or damaged.
However, one colleague at the Stockholm office who was on holiday in Thailand has been sadly affected - he has survived but is injured. Two of the familys children have arrived safely back to Sweden - but his wife and one child are still missing.
Another co-worker from the Stockholm office was on holiday in the area, and was also hit by the seismic sea wave. Fortunately, he has been able to fly back to Sweden relatively uninjured.
We have no knowledge that any other Swedish Match employee has been hurt or directly affected by the disaster in Southeast Asia.
Considering Swedish Matchs significant operations in the emergency area, and as an expression of our profound sympathy with those affected, the management have decided to donate 250 000 SEK to The Red Cross and its disaster relief efforts. Furthermore, an account has been established in order for Swedish Match employees to leave a contribution to the victims of the disaster. Swedish Match will match employee contributions for this cause during January and February 2005, up to an additional maximum amount of 250 000 SEK. Contributions can be made to bankgiro 560-4806. Mark the talon The disaster in Asia.
All help is needed, but no money can replace the loss of our loved ones. We share the grief with the affected and our thoughts are with them.
For employees in Sweden, more detailed information is available on North Europe's Matchnet.
