All registered Malaysians in Colombia safe after 7.4-magnitude quake, says Wisma Putra

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 12 — The Malaysian Foreign Ministry has assured that every registered Malaysian residing in Colombia remains safe and accounted for after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday. The Ministry's statement, issued on Tuesday (Aug 11), revealed that the Malaysian Embassy in Lima, Peru, which also serves as the country's accredited mission to Colombia, is maintaining close communication with local authorities and diligently monitoring the evolving situation.

The earthquake, which occurred around 7.34 am local time, originated near San José del Palmar in Colombia's Department of Chocó and generated seismic waves felt throughout much of the nation, particularly in central departments like Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Armenia, as well as the capital, Bogotá. This seismic event caused considerable destruction to buildings and infrastructure.

The Ministry has expressed its deepest condolences to the Colombian government and people, particularly those affected by this catastrophic natural disaster. The Ministry noted that Colombian authorities are actively assessing the aftermath, and the casualty count and the full scale of damage remain undetermined. The Ministry advised Malaysians residing in or traveling to Colombia, especially those in the affected regions, to exercise extreme caution, stay vigilant, and adhere to any instructions or advisories issued by the Colombian authorities and local emergency services.

Malaysians who have not yet registered their presence in the country were urged to do so immediately via the e-Konsular system. Those in need of immediate consular assistance or possessing information about Malaysians who may be impacted are encouraged to contact the Malaysian Embassy in Lima through various contact channels, including telephone, WhatsApp, or email.

The Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring the situation and issuing updates as deemed necessary.