17 Malaysians among 291 foreign nationals missing in Nepal floods

 Wisma Putra advises citizens residing in or travelling through the country to register and regularly update their contact details through the e-Konsular portal.

A massive flash flood swept through the Bhote Koshi River area in Nepal’s northern Rasuwa district this morning, damaging markets, settlements and infrastructure, according to media reports. (EPA Images pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Seventeen Malaysians are among hundreds of foreign nationals reported missing following floods in Nepal’s Rasuwa district.

The Nepal Tourism Board said more than 380 tourists, including 291 foreign nationals, were reported missing after floods hit the country today.

Apart from the 17 Malaysians, more than 100 Indians, 12 Britons, four South Africans, three US citizens, one Australian, and one Dutch citizen are unaccounted for.

The nationalities of another 111 people have yet to be confirmed, the board said.

Media reports said a massive flash flood swept through the Bhote Koshi River area in northern Rasuwa this morning, damaging markets, settlements, and infrastructure.

This evening, Wisma Putra said the Malaysian embassy in Kathmandu had received reports from travel agencies that they had lost contact with 11 Malaysians believed to be in Rasuwa district following the floods.

The foreign ministry said the loss of contact was believed to have been caused by severe disruptions to communication and electricity networks.

The embassy said it was coordinating with local authorities and search and rescue teams deployed by the Nepali government to locate the Malaysians and ascertain their safety.

Wisma Putra advised Malaysians residing in or travelling through Nepal, particularly those near the affected areas, to remain vigilant and follow all safety instructions issued by local authorities.

It also urged Malaysians to register and regularly update their contact details through the e-Konsular portal.

For immediate consular assistance or emergencies, Malaysians may contact the Malaysian embassy in Kathmandu at +977 1544 5680 or +977 1544 5681 (general), +977 1544 5689 (consular), or +977 980 100 8000 (emergency helpline), or email mwkathmandu@kln.gov.my.

The ministry said it would continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates once verified information on the Malaysians becomes available. - FMT