Malaysian team coordinates DNA identification efforts in Nepal

 

Malaysia is stepping up efforts to identify Malaysians affected by the floods and landslides in Nepal, with DNA samples being coordinated with Nepalese authorities. – NSTP pic

KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian team in Kathmandu is coordinating with Nepalese authorities on the use of next-of-kin DNA samples to identify Malaysians affected by the floods and landslides, says Wisma Putra.

The Foreign Ministry said police and the Chemistry Department were continuing to collect and analyse DNA samples in Malaysia as part of identification preparations coordinated with the ministry.

It said the team deployed to Kathmandu had arrived and was assisting the Malaysian embassy in coordinating ongoing search and identification efforts, including the use of DNA samples.

Earlier, Malaysia Solidarity: Families in Hope (Masfih) said DNA samples had been collected from relatives of Malaysians who remained uncontactable following the disaster.

Wisma Putra said the official number of Malaysians reported uncontactable remained at 55 as of today.

Separately, following approval from the Nepalese government, Malaysia will deploy an 11-member Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (Smart) tomorrow.

"The team will be equipped with high-capacity drones and specialised equipment to support operations led by the Nepalese authorities in areas requiring technical expertise and dedicated operational capabilities, subject to operational needs and safety conditions," the ministry said.

The government will also provide US$1 million (RM4 million) in humanitarian assistance to Nepal, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.  - NST