SHAH ALAM, Aug 27 — The Foreign Ministry has not received any official confirmation of Malaysian casualties following devastating floods in Nepal’s Rasuwa district yesterday.
In a statement today, Wisma Putra said the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu is in close contact with Nepalese authorities, search-and-rescue teams, the Nepal Tourism Board, travel agencies, and major hospitals to ascertain the safety and whereabouts of Malaysians affected by the disaster.
“The ministry has taken immediate steps to strengthen its consular response, including the deployment of an officer from another Malaysian mission in the region to support the embassy in Kathmandu.
“The ministry has also activated its operations room in Putrajaya effective 12pm today to coordinate information and provide a direct channel of communication for Malaysians in the affected areas and their families,” read the statement.
It added that the ministry can be contacted via +603-8887 4570 or via email at dutyofficer@kln.gov.my.
Wisma Putra urged families of Malaysians in Nepal to email their loved ones’ details, including full names, passport numbers, travel itineraries, last known locations, and phone numbers, to the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu at mwkathmandu@kln.gov.my.
The ministry added that based on latest information, 55 Malaysians who previously reported to the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu are uncontactable.
“The ministry understands that severe disruptions to communication and electricity networks in the affected areas may be contributing to the difficulties in establishing contact,” it explained.
Meanwhile, it urged Malaysians residing or travelling in Nepal, especially in or near affected areas, to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety, and adhere to instructions from local authorities.
“Malaysians are also urged to register and regularly update their contact details via the e-Konsular portal.
“The Foreign Ministry will continue to monitor developments and provide further updates as needed,” said Wisma Putra.
According to media reports, flash floods near the Nepal-Tibet border yesterday were caused by heavy rain and glacial landslides along the Bhote Koshi River.
The death toll surpassed 160 last night, while hundreds, including tourists and members of Nepal’s police and security forces, remained unaccounted for.
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake was detected near the Nepal-China border at 8.37am local time yesterday, according to the United States Geological Survey.
