JAKARTA (Agencies): Messages of condolence and offers of assistance are pouring in for the victims of the earthquake in Yogyakarta that killed more than 2,500 people and injured thousands more. "Deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake near Yogyakarta, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI prays for the victims and their grieving families, invoking eternal peace upon the deceased and divine comfort and consolation on all who aresuffering," read a telegram sent by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano. The message added that the pope was encouraging "the rescue workers and all those involved in providing medical assistance tothe victims of this disaster to persevere in their efforts to bring relief and support". Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak said his country would send a search team and medical supplies to the city located in the central part of Java island.

Razak said a 56-member team from Malaysia's disaster relief agency, five doctors and several paramedics would leave Saturday night for Yogyakarta on board an air force plane. "The medical team will bring with them one ton of medicines and other essentials like blankets to be distributed to the victims," he was quoted as saying by national news agency Bernama. The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta said the U.S. government would provide US$100,000 to support emergency efforts in response to the devastating earthquake.

"The U.S. contribution will support search and rescue and emergency care and response activities conducted by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Indonesian Red Cross," the embassy said in a pressstatement sent to The Jakarta Post. Australia, Britain, France, China, Russia and Japan have also expressed similar commitment. MetroTV reported that the Australian government had offered US$1 million assistance to the earthquake victims.

The Jakarta Post