Malaysia sends families’ DNA samples to Nepal to help identify 55 missing Malaysians, says Tok Mat

All DNA samples from the families of 55 Malaysians still unaccounted for due to floods and landslides in Nepal have been collected, according to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. The samples will be sent to Nepal for extensive DNA matching, a process that could take considerable time due to the number of victims. Malaysia is ready to send experts from the Department of Chemistry to assist Nepal with the process, if needed.

The Nepalese government has been highly cooperative with the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu in obtaining updates on the situation and searching for the missing Malaysians, with daily updates received from the Malaysian Embassy's Chargé d’Affaires. The next-of-kin have been regularly informed of any new developments. In response to the disaster, 11 officers and personnel from Malaysia's Special Malaysian Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) have left for Nepal to aid in search and rescue operations, which are expected to last ten days.

While 77 individuals have been found safe in Tibet and Nepal, the remaining 55 Malaysians are anticipated to return to Malaysia on flights organized by their travel agents. Additionally, Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan will meet with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow in Bangkok to discuss enhancing security in southern Thailand and addressing bilateral concerns between the two nations.

The meeting aims to facilitate peace in the region, which would benefit both countries, particularly by boosting Malaysia-Thailand border trade, a significant economic factor. Malaysians traveling to Thailand are advised to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety.