Wisma Putra: 55 Malaysians remain uncontactable after Nepal and China disasters

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also known as Wisma Putra, reports that 55 Malaysians remain uncontactable following the floods and landslides in Nepal and China. The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) has returned from Nepal and will brief Wisma Putra on its mission. During the deployment, SMART conducted search activities in accessible areas with Nepalese authorities' permission, using both ground operations and aerial observations with drones.

The gathered information will be reviewed to determine suitable follow-up actions. This does not mean that the efforts to ascertain the status of the Malaysians have ended, as the ministry stresses that the 55 individuals remain recorded as uncontactable. Malaysia's support for Nepal's disaster-response efforts includes on-site training for Nepalese rescue personnel on drone operations and the transfer of nine drones to the Government of Nepal.

In China, the Malaysian Embassy will maintain contact with relevant Chinese authorities concerning Malaysians affected by the disaster. Wisma Putra understands the concern among families waiting for information about their loved ones and is in direct contact with the immediate next of kin. Any verified developments will be communicated before public announcements.

The ministry urges the public and media to respect the privacy of families and refrain from speculation about individuals whose status has not been confirmed. Follow-up updates will be provided based on verified information received through official channels.