Families of 55 missing Malaysians seek updates on Nepal flood search

Families of 55 Malaysians missing following glacial flash floods in Nepal on August 26 gathered at Wisma Putra for a closed-door briefing to seek updates on search and identification efforts. As the ordeal enters its 33rd day, relatives expressed growing emotional and financial distress, noting a lack of clarity regarding the status of their loved ones and whether personal belongings have been recovered.

Following the disaster, a Malaysian Special Search and Rescue Team (SMART) consisting of 11 members conducted ground searches and drone monitoring in Nepal before returning to Malaysia on September 14. While the SMART team has departed, Malaysian authorities stated that search and identification efforts continue in coordination with Nepalese authorities.

To assist in the identification of victims, DNA sampling was conducted during a previous briefing on August 30. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has also engaged with Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah to advocate for the families and discuss the establishment of official mechanisms to assist those affected.