The number of Malaysians reported uncontactable in China and Nepal remains at 36 and 55 respectively, despite earlier reports that three Malaysians were among foreign nationals still missing following a landslide at Gyirong Port in Xizang, China.
In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also known as Wisma Putra, said it had taken note of reports from the Xizang authorities that three Malaysians were among foreign nationals who could not be located following the landslide on August 26.
The ministry clarified that the three Malaysians had already been included in the existing list of 36 Malaysians reported uncontactable in China, meaning they were not additional cases.
“As such, the current figures remain at 36 Malaysians in China and 55 Malaysians in Nepal,” the ministry said.
The Malaysian embassies in Beijing and Kathmandu are continuing to work with the relevant authorities to establish the whereabouts and safety of those who remain uncontactable. Both missions are also cross-checking information from the two countries to prevent any duplication in the reported figures.
Over the past few days, the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu has also been providing consular assistance to family members of Malaysians who remain uncontactable, as well as those who have travelled to Nepal’s capital in search of information.
The embassy has been providing updates on the situation, offering guidance on local procedures and helping families coordinate with the relevant Nepalese authorities. Where necessary, embassy officials may also accompany family members to relevant facilities in Kathmandu.
Families have been advised to follow all safety instructions issued by the Nepalese authorities, while the Malaysian embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing remain in contact with their respective authorities to seek access closer to the affected areas.
However, any movement by Malaysian officials into the affected locations will depend on approval from the relevant authorities, as well as prevailing security conditions and accessibility on the ground.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry’s Operations Room in Putrajaya continues to operate around the clock to coordinate information and provide assistance to Malaysians in affected areas and their families.
Malaysians in the affected areas, as well as family members with relevant information, can contact the Foreign Ministry’s Operations Room at +603 8887 4570 or via email at dutyofficer@kln.gov.my.
The ministry has also urged the public not to speculate or circulate unverified information while efforts continue to establish the safety and whereabouts of the Malaysians involved.
Any further developments will be communicated through official channels based on verified information received by the ministry.
