Nepal disaster: Malaysian families seek answers over search areas, DNA samples

KUALA LUMPUR: Families of Malaysians missing since landslides and floods occurred at the Nepal-Tibet border are demanding clarification from the government on the search areas and DNA samples being used in the rescue operation. Malaysia Solidarity: Families in Hope (Masfih) spokesman Dr Manivannan Rethinam said the families want an immediate and detailed explanation regarding whether the government has obtained new information on the last known locations of the missing Malaysians.

The families are seeking confirmation if the government has any updated coordinates or information that differs from what the families themselves have provided. Dr Rethinam expressed frustration in a statement today, questioning why the government has not informed the families about new or different last known locations if such information exists.

He emphasized that the discrepancy directly impacts the direction of the search operation and the safety of the missing family members. Dr Rethinam also raised concerns about the collection and processing of DNA samples, questioning why one family member was scheduled to provide a sample days after the others. He stressed the need for accurate and consistent facts, not information that keeps changing.

Dr Rethinam urged the government to provide specific answers on the search areas, the basis of the information, and the rationale behind the operation. He called for transparency, accurate information, and proper explanations regarding the safety and fate of the missing family members.