Kuala Lumpur:A recent proposal by Nepal to reduce the period for declaring disaster missing persons dead from 12 years to 45 days has provided relief to the families of 54 Malaysians who remain missing after a flood tragedy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia Solidarity: Families in Hope (MASFIH) has welcomed the proposal, describing it as a significant relief for the families facing emotional and financial difficulties 44 days after the tragedy. Dr. Manivannan Rethinam, a spokesman for MASFIH, stated that the families are hopeful the provision will be implemented quickly to offer clarity to the next of kin of the Malaysians missing due to the landslide and floods along the Nepal-China border on August 26.

With the 45-day period set to end on October 9, and the proposal still undergoing the legal process in Nepal, Dr. Manivannan urged the Malaysian Government to provide an official explanation of the current legal position to prevent confusion. Reports from Nepal indicate that the government has recommended an ordinance to amend laws and remove legal barriers to declaring missing persons dead.

Education Minister Sasmit Pokhrel was quoted as saying that the existing 12-year requirement would be shortened to 45 days following the Bhotekoshi floods. In addition, MASFIH is set to meet with Bank Negara Malaysia to discuss financial assistance for the victims' families and has appreciated AmBank for offering financial aid through its foundation.

MASFIH is also awaiting responses from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Attorney General's Chambers to discuss legal protection and direction for the missing victims. Individuals interested in contributing to the support of the victims' families can contact MASFIH directly.