Families of missing Malaysians in Nepal seek meeting with AGC, BNM

Families of the 54 Malaysians still missing after floods in Nepal have requested meetings with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) within the next two to three days. MASFHI, a Malaysian solidarity group, urged BNM to establish a coordinated mechanism to help families manage their financial obligations while awaiting the resolution of their loved ones' status.

This mechanism could include measures like a moratorium, deferment, or restructuring of payments for financial commitments until the legal status of the missing individuals is determined. MASFHI's spokesman, R Manivannan, stressed the importance of an AGC representative at the meetings, as some financial issues are tied to the legal status of the missing Malaysians.

He also requested clear guidance from the AGC on the legal process for obtaining a "presumed death" declaration, including necessary evidence and documents. Additionally, Manivannan called for the submission of 20 DNA samples from the remaining 23 missing Malaysians to Chinese authorities for identification purposes, with three samples already provided.

He also urged Malaysia to seek China's assistance in granting next of kin digital access to a catalogue of personal belongings recovered at Gyirong Port to aid in identification. BNM has stated that banks are prepared to assist affected families through repayment deferments, fee waivers, and flexible documentation requirements, pending the completion of legal processes.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed Nepal's cooperation in determining the status of the missing Malaysians and instructed Attorney-General Dusuki Mokhtar to discuss further with Nepalese authorities.