Foreign Ministry says 36 Malaysians in Tibet reported safe, with checks widening to Chinese border areas

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 29 — Thirty-six Malaysians in Tibet have been reported safe after flash floods and landslides in the China-Nepal border region, according to Deputy Secretary-General of the Foreign Ministry (Bilateral Relations), Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin. The identities and statuses of these individuals are being confirmed with Chinese authorities.

The ministry is cross-checking to ensure no overlap with Malaysians uncontactable in Nepal. They will provide an update if any names overlap, including the exact number of citizens still missing or found safe, both in Nepal and Tibet. The Malaysian Embassy in Beijing and the High Commission in New Delhi are assisting in this process, as some Malaysians might have traveled via China and India.

The Foreign Ministry's Operations Room in Putrajaya remains operational 24/7 for coordination, aid provision, and updates. Confirming Malaysian safety in Tibet requires coordination with Nepal and tour operators, and verifying travel documents. The priority is to locate and ensure the safety of Malaysians in affected areas, considering weather conditions and access limitations.

Malaysia, through the National Security Council and National Disaster Management Agency, is coordinating potential assistance to Nepal, contingent upon Nepal's needs and readiness. Assistance may include financial resources and aid. The ministry is also assessing Malaysian agencies' readiness, including the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team, Defense Ministry, and Malaysian Armed Forces.

The Sultan of Malaysia has ordered the ministry to provide affected Malaysians' family members with the latest verified information, while urging the media and public to rely on official Foreign Ministry statements for updates.