Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysian government currently does not plan to mandate the registration of its e-Consular system for citizens abroad, as stated by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad explained that while the registration through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' digital platform is voluntary, Malaysians living, traveling, or studying overseas are strongly encouraged to register. This measure aims to facilitate monitoring and welfare matters.
Mohamad further clarified that the e-Consular application is beneficial for embassies and diplomatic missions to track the whereabouts of Malaysian citizens and contact them in emergencies or crises. He addressed this during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, responding to Khairil Nizam Khirudin (PN-Jerantut) about making the registration mandatory.
In response to Datuk Seri Sh Mohmed Puzi Sh Ali (BN-Pekan), who inquired about tightening the registration system, Mohamad mentioned the MyWorldAlert safety application. This system, integrated with e-Consular, uses GPS for rapid communication of alerts in urgent situations.
Regarding assistance for Malaysians stranded abroad, Mohamad stated that the ministry provides consular aid, including family communication and fundraising facilitation, though it does not cover all financial costs. He cited instances of pilgrims stranded in Jeddah and Madinah due to unauthorized agents, where assistance was still provided.
Addressing the flood tragedy in Nepal on August 26, he reported that 54 Malaysians are still missing or unaccounted for. Despite the Nepalese government's shift from search and rescue to recovery operations, Malaysian authorities remain in contact with local police to verify details at trekking route posts.
Mohamad also noted that Wisma Putra, in collaboration with agencies like the Attorney-General's Chambers, Bank Negara Malaysia, and the National Registration Department, is assisting with matters concerning death certificates for the heirs of those affected by the Nepal incident.