Najib chairs National Security Council meeting over North Korea's decision

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has chaired an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, in the wake of North Korea's decision to prevent Malaysians from leaving the country.

"Just arrived at the Royal Malaysian Air Force Subang air base from Jakarta. I am now chairing an emergency meeting of the National Security Council here," tweeted Najib on Tuesday.

Najib arrived at the Subang air base at 5.40pm after his visit to Jakarta to attend the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Summit concluded on Tuesday.

Immediately after arrival, Najib went on to chair the emergency meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) at the air base's conference room.

He uploaded a picture of the emergency meeting on his Twitter page that saw him at the head of the meeting table flanked by key Malaysian officials.

Among those who attended the meeting were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Communication and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.

Also present was Immigration director-general Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali, NSC director-general Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohamad Apandi Ali and Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor.

The Prime Minister in a statement called for North Korea to release all Malaysian citizens immediately to avoid any further escalation of the diplomatic row between the two countries. 

“This abhorrent act, effectively holding our citizens hostage, is in total disregard of all international law and diplomatic norms," said Najib.

“As a peace-loving nation, Malaysia is committed to maintaining friendly relations with all countries.  However, protecting our citizens is my first priority, and we will not hesitate to take all measures necessary when they are threatened,” he added in a statement Tuesday. 

In response to North Korea's decision, Najib announced that all North Koreans working with the nation's embassy in Malaysia have been prevented from leaving the country until the safety and security of all Malaysians in North Korea have been assured.