No Malaysians reported missing in Flores earthquake

 The Malaysian embassy in Jakarta is in close contact with the Indonesian foreign ministry for the latest update on the situation.

About 2,000 residents were evacuated or had fled to safety following the earthquake that struck Flores Island in Indonesia early today. (Epa Images pic)

PETALING JAYA:

No Malaysians have been reported affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) province early today.

The Malaysian embassy in Jakarta said it had contacted Malaysians, including tourists, who had informed it of their whereabouts in the region.

The foreign ministry said a group of 16 Malaysian tourists who were in areas affected by the earthquake have been confirmed safe and in good health.

It advised Malaysians residing in or travelling to the affected regions to remain vigilant and prioritise their personal safety.

“The embassy is also in close contact with the Indonesian foreign ministry to obtain the latest update on the situation.”

Malaysians affected by the earthquake and requiring consular assistance can contact the Malaysian embassy in Jakarta via +62 813 8081 3036 or email mwjakarta@kln.gov.my.

The earthquake struck at 4.58am local time, with its epicentre in the sea about 30km from Mbay at a depth of 15km. It also triggered a tsunami warning, which the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency lifted at 7.31am after monitoring sea levels.

The National Disaster Management Agency said about 2,000 residents were evacuated or had fled to safety following the earthquake that struck Flores Island.

Earlier, the Maumere search and rescue office reported that the death toll from the earthquake and several strong aftershocks had risen to 20, with six people injured and two others still trapped in the debris. - FMT