Nepal floods: One Malaysian safe, 54 others still uncontactable

KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian previously reported as uncontactable following floods and landslides in Nepal returned safely to the country yesterday, the Foreign Ministry said.

The ministry said the man had presented himself at the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu on Oct 1 to verify his identity and confirm that he was safe.

"After returning, the relevant authorities in Malaysia will record a statement from the person to complete the official record concerning his case.

"He will also undergo a health assessment," the ministry said in a statement today.

The Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu is also conducting further verification with the relevant Nepalese authorities and reviewing relevant records following the development.

With the man's status confirmed, the ministry said its records now show 54 Malaysians as uncontactable.

The ministry said it would continue to verify each case separately based on information obtained from the relevant authorities and available official channels.

It said it would not disclose details about the Malaysian who had returned, out of respect for his privacy.

"The ministry also continues to monitor developments in Nepal following the official announcement by Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority on Sept 30 that it had concluded its search and rescue operations and transitioned to search and recovery efforts.

"Malaysia will continue to pursue verification through the Embassy of Malaysia in Kathmandu and Beijing, continued engagement with the relevant authorities and other available official channels," it said.

The ministry added that it would continue to follow legal and administrative processes being developed in Nepal concerning documentation and procedures for disaster victims who remain uncontactable.

It said verified developments on individual cases would be communicated directly to their immediate next of kin.

The ministry also urged the public and media to respect the privacy of affected families and refrain from speculation about individuals whose status had yet to be confirmed.