THREE MALAYSIANS UNREACHABLE BELIEVED TO BE IN ACEH OR NORTH SUMATRA - WISMA PUTRA

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 1 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Consulate General in Medan has received reports from the public regarding three Malaysian tourists – two men and one woman, aged between 63 and 64 – who have been uncontactable since Nov 27.

In a statement on Monday, the Foreign Ministry, widely known as Wisma Putra, said initial information suggests the trio were last believed to be in Aceh or North Sumatra.

"The Consulate General is working closely with local authorities to ascertain their whereabouts and extend necessary assistance," said Wisma Putra.

The ministry added that it is also closely monitoring developments following the recent floods and landslides in West Sumatra, which have led to a separate incident involving a missing Malaysian citizen.

It confirmed that a 30-year-old Asrul Nizam Apridwson has been reported missing after being affected by a landslide in Padang Panjang on Nov 27.

"The Consulate General is in close coordination with local authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation," said the ministry.

It noted that preliminary information indicates that the vehicle carrying the victim and seven Indonesian nationals, believed to be family members, was caught in the landslide.

Four of the Indonesian passengers are accounted for, while search operations continue for the Malaysian citizen and the remaining three Indonesian nationals.

"The victim's parents are currently in Padang, and the Consulate General is providing appropriate assistance and support to the family throughout their stay," said the ministry.

Meanwhile, the ministry advised Malaysians who are currently in the affected areas of North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh to exercise extreme caution, remain alert, and adhere to all guidance issued by local authorities.

"Families of Malaysians who are currently in the affected regions and have not been able to reach their relatives are strongly urged to contact the Consulate General in Medan immediately for assistance, especially given forecasts of continued inclement weather," it said.

The consulate can be contacted by telephone at +62 823-6164-6046 (24 hours) or by e-mail at mwmedan@kln.gov.my. 

-- BERNAMA