KUALA LUMPUR: The next of kin of 55 Malaysians still missing from the Nepal flood disaster have appealed to the government to establish a special mechanism to defer financial commitments, such as a moratorium, to ease their financial burden.
Malaysia Solidarity: Families in Hope (MASFIH) spokesman Dr Manivannan Rethinam said the request covers housing and vehicle loan instalments, insurance premiums and other ongoing financial commitments until the victims' legal status is determined.
"Prior to and during our meeting with Wisma Putra last Sunday, we requested an urgent meeting with representatives from the Attorney-General's Chambers and Bank Negara to discuss the legal and financial issues faced by the families.
"To date, we have not received any update on the request," he said in a statement on Tuesday (Sept 29).
Manivannan said MASFIH raised the matter because the victims' families face difficult circumstances and need assistance.
At the same time, Manivannan expressed appreciation for the efforts of the government and relevant agencies in search and rescue operations, as well as coordination with Nepalese and Chinese authorities.
Last Sunday, it was reported that the Nepalese government was considering legal measures to address cases of individuals whose status remains undetermined, including foreign nationals, following the floods and landslides in the country.
Meanwhile, Wisma Putra said the matter remains subject to Nepal's domestic legal processes and has not taken effect to date.
Floods and debris flow on Aug 26, triggered by ice and rock avalanches in the upper catchment area of Lhende Khola in Tibet, killed over 1,450 people. Thousands remain unaccounted for. – Bernama
