Climate catastrophe leaves Nepal mourning while the search for the missing continues

Families of 55 Malaysians missing since the Nepal disaster are raising questions about the search efforts, 20 days after the tragedy struck. Dr R. Manivannan, representing 49 of the 55 families, expressed concerns about the search's timing, strategy, and priorities during a statement. The earthquake occurred on August 26 along the Nepal-Tibet border, leaving 55 Malaysians unaccounted for.

SMART personnel departed Malaysia on September 5, but their first reported presence in the affected area was on September 8, Day 14. Manivannan acknowledged operational constraints but questioned why, after 20 days, certain areas containing vital family location information were not yet searched. The families provided extensive evidence, including photographs, videos, and GPS data, but their information appears not to have been incorporated into the operational picture.

They requested access to the National Security Council coordination mechanism to share their data and gain clarity on the search, recovery, and identification efforts on the Tibetan side. Specifically, they sought details on three Malaysians who allegedly crossed Tibetan immigration around Day 9 and wanted an objective review of the initial 48 to 72 hours following the disaster.

Families also demanded a meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to address their concerns and a coordinated government mechanism to assist with legal and financial issues arising from the ongoing uncertainty. They sought a clear operational plan post-SMART's return, a detailed briefing on searched areas, continued engagement with Nepal and China, a transparent forensic and identification process, and prompt communication of significant developments affecting the missing Malaysians.