SEREMBAN: DNA samples from the families of 55 Malaysians still unaccounted for following floods and landslides in Nepal have been obtained, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Foreign Minister said the samples would be sent to Nepal for authorities there to conduct DNA matching, a process expected to take some time given the large number of victims involved.
Mohamad said Malaysia was also prepared to send experts from the Chemistry Department to assist Nepalese authorities with the process if required.
"Many other countries will also be sending their experts to assist Nepal in identifying DNA matches for the victims, which will help expedite the process," he told reporters after attending the Pinggiran Senawang Independence Carnival here on Saturday (Sept 5).
Meanwhile, he said the Nepalese government had been providing excellent cooperation to the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu in obtaining the latest information on Malaysians affected by the disaster.
Mohamad said the ministry received daily updates from the Chargé d'Affaires of the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu on the search operation and the situation on the ground, while the next-of-kin were also contacted regularly whenever there were new developments.
He said Nepal had limited the entry of foreign search and rescue (SAR) teams to avoid having too many teams on the ground, which could make it more difficult for the local authorities to coordinate the operation.
This morning, 11 officers and personnel from Special Malaysian Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) departed for Nepal. The mission is expected to last 10 days.
A total of 55 Malaysians are still uncontactable following the disaster on Aug 26, while some of the 77 individuals located safe in Tibet and Nepal have since returned safely to Malaysia. The remainder are expected to return on flights arranged by their respective travel agents.
In another development, Mohamad said he would meet Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow in the capital on Monday to discuss efforts to enhance security in southern Thailand, as well as bilateral issues between the two countries.
He said Malaysia had been given the honour by Thailand to serve as a facilitator in negotiations with the parties concerned to help bring about peace in the region.
He added that the meeting would also discuss the best approach to ensure that efforts to promote security and peace in southern Thailand could be effectively implemented.
Mohamad said peace in the region would benefit both countries, particularly by boosting Malaysia-Thailand border trade, which is of significant value.
He also advised Malaysians planning to visit Thailand to remain vigilant and always prioritise their safety. – Bernama
