The text message sent this week by China’s largest mobile phone operator to subscribers in the country's earthquake-hit southwest was unusually solicitous for a communication between a company and its customers.

“Are you still in the earthquake disaster area? We are worried about your safety, and looking forward to hearing from you,” ran the message, which announced the gift of a Rmb10 free call credit. “Don’t forget your loved ones . . . one call can put your family at ease.”