PUTRAJAYA, Aug 11 — The Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) has confirmed that all registered Malaysians in Colombia are safe and accounted for following a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday.
It said the Embassy of Malaysia in Lima, Peru, which is concurrently accredited to Colombia, remains in close contact with the relevant local authorities and is closely monitoring developments.
The earthquake struck at about 7.34am local time, with its epicentre located near the town of San José del Palmar in the Department of Chocó.
Tremors were felt across much of Colombia, particularly in the central region, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Armenia, as well as the capital Bogotá, resulting in significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
“The ministry extends its deepest sympathies to the government and people of the Republic of Colombia, especially those affected by this devastating natural disaster,” Wisma Putra said in a statement today.
It added that the Colombian authorities are continuing to assess the situation, while the number of casualties and the full extent of the damage have yet to be determined.
Wisma Putra advised Malaysians residing in or travelling to Colombia, particularly those in affected areas, to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant, and comply with instructions and advisories issued by Colombian authorities and local emergency services.
Malaysians who have yet to register their presence in the country are strongly urged to do so immediately via e-Konsular.
Those requiring immediate consular assistance or with information regarding Malaysians who may be affected can contact the Malaysian Embassy in Lima via telephone or WhatsApp at (511) 422 0297, (511) 441 1939, or (511) 441 0795, or by email at mwlima@kln.gov.my or malawakillima@gmail.com.
The ministry said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.
