Woman Uncontactable In Aceh Flood Back In Malaysia - Wisma Putra

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- The Foreign Ministry has confirmed that a 64-year-old Malaysian woman previously uncontactable in Aceh following severe floods in the area is safe and has returned to Malaysia on Monday, according to information from her family.

Separately, the search and rescue (SAR) operation to locate a Malaysian, Asrul Nizam Apridwson, has now entered its 15th day. The 30-year-old was reported missing following a landslide in Padang Panjang on Nov 27.

“Search efforts remain ongoing, and the consulate general continues to provide consular support to the family, who are in close contact with Indonesian authorities,” the ministry widely known as Wisma Putra said on Tuesday, in its latest update on the floods and landslides situation in Sumatra.

At this time, there are no new reports of Malaysians missing or affected by the disaster, the ministry added.

Wisma Putra, through the Consulate General of Malaysia in Medan, continues to monitor developments following the severe floods and landslides that struck Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra since Nov 27.

“Indonesian authorities report that access to several previously cut-off areas has improved, enabling SAR teams to reach more locations as road clearance works progress,” it said, adding that as a result, the number of individuals initially reported missing has begun to decline.

Wisma Putra noted that flood conditions in parts of the affected provinces are also gradually stabilising, with some districts entering early recovery phases.

However, in several interior areas, particularly in Aceh Tamiang, West Sumatra, and the Tapanuli regions, authorities continue to face impediments in their bid to restore access, essential supplies, and basic services.

Wisma Putra advises Malaysians currently in the affected areas of North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh to remain vigilant, pay close attention to weather developments, and adhere to instructions issued by Indonesian authorities.

"Any Malaysian requiring assistance, or families who are unable to contact relatives in the affected areas, are encouraged to reach out immediately to the Consulate General," it said

The Consulate General of Malaysia in Medan can be contacted via the 24-hour hotline at +62 823 6164 6046 or by email at mwmedan@kln.gov.my.

-- BERNAMA