KUALA LUMPUR: The government has assured that it will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Malaysians currently in Middle Eastern countries affected by the fallout from the attacks on Iran.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said there are currently more than 29,112 registered and unregistered Malaysians in several countries across the region.
“As a government, we are responsible for safeguarding and guaranteeing the safety of Malaysians. Many are currently stranded due to airspace closures and flight disruptions. Some are long-term residents who have settled and are working there.
“The rest comprise tourists and Umrah pilgrims. The total number of Malaysians registered to work in the West Asia region, including those unregistered, exceeds 29,112,” he told the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (March 2).
He said this while tabling a motion condemning the Israeli attacks on Iran, which he described as “barbaric and violent”, and alleging they were carried out with United States support.
Anwar said the largest number of Malaysians in the region is currently in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.
“Wisma Putra is closely monitoring the situation, working through our embassies and making contact to determine whether assistance is required to bring them home, although flight disruptions currently hamper efforts.
“Flights are still permitted from Saudi Arabia, but we have yet to receive confirmation regarding departures from other countries,” he added.
