Missing MAS flight: No word after more than 24 hours

SEPANG:  There is no firm news of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH370 from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing although it has been reported missing more than 24 hours ago.

MAS' Executive Media Relations and Strategic Communications Malini Saudranrajan urged Malaysians and people worldwide to pray for flight MH370.

"It has been more than 24 hours since we last heard from MH370 at 1.30am. The search and rescue team is yet to determine the whereabouts of the Boeing 777-200 aircraft," she said in a statement at 2.02am on Sunday.

She said an international search and rescue mission from Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam was mobilised this morning.

 "At this stage, they have failed to find evidence of any wreckage. The sea mission will continue overnight while the air mission will recommence at daylight.

 "We are dispatching all information as and when we receive it. The situation in Beijing is also being monitored closely," she said.

 "Since many families of passengers are in China, MAS has deployed the "Go Team" to Beijing with a team of caregivers and volunteers to assist family members of the passengers.

She said immediate families of passengers are advised to gather at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.(KLIA). Travel arrangements and expenses will be borne by MAS.

"Once the whereabouts of the aircraft is determined, Malaysia Airlines will fly members of the family to the location. Our sole priority now is to provide all assistance to the families of the passengers and our staff.

"We are also working closely with the concerned authorities in the search and rescue operation," she said.

The families can contact 603 7884 1234 for further information, and log on to www.malaysiaairlines.com for updates. -  Bernama