KUALA LUMPUR: There are no plans to make the e-Konsular system registration mandatory for all Malaysians travelling abroad, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Foreign Minister said that while there was currently no intention of making the system mandatory, he encouraged Malaysians to register voluntarily when they travel overseas.
“Malaysians are encouraged to make use of the e-Konsular system when going overseas, regardless of the reason, as it will make it easier for us to contact them in case anything happens.
“They are also advised to download the MyWorld Alert application, which allows Malaysians to receive safety alerts while visiting other countries and easily contact the Malaysian Embassy,” he said during Question Time at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
This announcement follows several recent natural disasters in countries frequently visited by Malaysians, including the devastating floods in Nepal on Aug 26, where 54 Malaysians remain unaccounted for.
On the disaster, Mohamad Hasan said the Malaysian Embassy in Nepal was currently working with Nepal’s Home Ministry to release death certificates for the missing Malaysians as soon as possible.
“Last week, our Embassy’s Charge d’Affaires met with Nepal’s Home Ministry, which has assured us they are working on law amendments for the quick release of death certificates for the missing Malaysians.
“This process is vital so that the next-of-kin of those missing can resolve any banking, registration and other issues related to their missing loved ones,” he added.
He was responding to a supplementary question from Khairil Nizam Khirudin (PN-Jerantut) on the government’s stance on making the e-Konsular system registration mandatory and providing an update on the Nepal flood situation.
