No mandatory e-Consular registration yet, but foreign minister wants Malaysians abroad to sign up to make contact in emergencies easier

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 5 — Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan clarified that the government does not plan to make registration on the e-Consular system mandatory for Malaysians abroad. The digital platform managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs currently allows voluntary registration, but Malaysians residing, travelling, or studying abroad are strongly encouraged to register.

This registration aids in monitoring and welfare matters, as well as facilitating communication with citizens during emergencies, natural disasters, or crises. During a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, he addressed a supplementary query from Khairil Nizam Khirudin (PN-Jerantut) regarding the government's intentions of making the registration mandatory.

He also responded to Sh Mohmed Puzi Sh Ali (BN-Pekan) about tightening the registration system for Malaysians travelling or residing abroad. The MyWorldAlert safety application, integrated with e-Consular, serves as a rapid communication system utilizing Global Positioning System data to deliver vital information and alerts swiftly during urgent situations.