{
  "id": 18276568,
  "title": "Families of 54 missing Malaysians seek answers 72 days after Nepal floods",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/families-of-54-missing-malaysians-seek-answers-72-days-after-nepal",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-05T08:10:48.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/11/1571477/families-54-missing-malaysians-seek-answers-72-days-after-nepal-floods"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: Families of 54 Malaysians still missing after the Nepal-Tibet floods have grown increasingly anxious and frustrated with the government's handling of the situation, 72 days after the disaster. Dr Manivannan Rethinam, a spokesperson for Malaysia Solidarity Families in Hope (MASFIH), explained that families are particularly concerned about being required to apply for death certificates under a new Nepalese ordinance, which reduces the waiting period for such certificates from 12 years to just 45 days. However, families are seeking clarification on whether Malaysian authorities will recognize these documents and how the new process could impact inheritance, insurance claims, and other legal matters. MASFIH stresses that families need comprehensive information before making decisions with significant consequences for their lives and legal rights. Despite 54 Malaysians remaining missing, no official confirmation of their deaths has been issued, and MASFIH has urged the ministry to correct media reports stating otherwise. Families are also disappointed that Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has not yet met with them despite multiple requests. Additional concerns include updates on DNA analysis, coordination with Nepalese and Chinese authorities, and delays in issuing ministry confirmation letters necessary for insurance claims. MASFIH has called on the ministry to provide written explanations, address outstanding questions, meet family representatives, and enhance communication. The group proposes an independent audit of the ministry's handling of the crisis. Manivannan emphasized that despite the passage of time, families remain hopeful and are still waiting for answers.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Families of 54 Malaysians who remain missing following the Nepal-Tibet floods have expressed growing frustration with the government over unresolved questions and inadequate communication, 72 days after the disaster.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}