PETALING JAYA: The number of Malaysians still reported as uncontactable following the floods in Nepal now stands at 54, says Wisma Putra.
This follows the safe return of a Malaysian who was previously reported as uncontactable after the individual presented himself at the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu on Thursday.
Wisma Putra said the embassy had verified the individual’s identity and confirmed that he was safe.
He returned to Malaysia the next day.
“With his status now confirmed, the ministry’s record stands at 54 Malaysians reported as uncontactable.
The ministry said the relevant Malaysian authorities would obtain a statement from the individual to complete the official record concerning his case.
“The individual will also undergo a health assessment.
“The Embassy of Malaysia in Kathmandu is also conducting further verification with the relevant Nepalese authorities and reviewing relevant records in light of this development,” it said in a statement yesterday.
Wisma Putra said personal details of the Malaysian who had returned would not be disclosed for privacy reasons.
The ministry said it would continue monitoring developments in Nepal following the country’s official announcement on Sept 30 that it had concluded search and rescue operations and transitioned to search and recovery efforts.
“This transition does not end Malaysia’s efforts to verify the status of all 54 Malaysians currently reported as uncontactable.
“Malaysia will continue to pursue verification through the embassies of Malaysia in Kathmandu and Beijing, continued engagement with the relevant authorities and other available official channels,” it said.
The ministry also said it would follow the legal and administrative processes being developed in Nepal concerning documentation and procedures applicable to disaster victims who remain uncontactable.
It added that it would communicate verified developments concerning individual cases directly to immediate next of kin.
“The public and the media are urged to respect the privacy of the families concerned and refrain from speculation regarding any individual whose status has yet to be confirmed,” it said.
