Kuala lumpur: The Foreign Ministry is actively monitoring the status of 21,427 Malaysians residing in 14 conflict-affected countries, preparing for potential evacuation operations if security conditions deteriorate.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni highlighted that previous experiences in conflict management have bolstered the government's readiness. "We have a comprehensive plan to deal with the situation," he stated in response to a query from Senator Musoddak Ahmad regarding contingency plans by the government and airlines amidst prolonged geopolitical conflicts, including support for Malaysian students, during a session at Dewan Negara.
The Deputy Minister elaborated that the plan involves coordination with relevant ministries, agencies, non-governmental organizations, travel agencies, umrah operators, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), and airlines capable of providing charter flights. He further noted that Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) has its own evacuation strategy for its employees.
Addressing Musoddak's original inquiry about safeguarding Malaysians in the Middle East, including Umrah pilgrims, Lukanisman assured that Malaysian diplomatic missions maintain regularly updated contingency plans. These plans, which include mapping the locations of Malaysians, communication methods, resource coordination, and evacuation strategies, are designed to guide operational officers in ensuring orderly and effective assistance and evacuation.
Lukanisman urged Malaysians abroad or planning social visits to register their presence with missions via email, phone call, or the e-Consular system. They are also encouraged to use the MyWorldAlert application for information and emergency assistance.
He mentioned that since the outbreak of conflict in West Asia earlier this year, the Foreign Ministry has issued three travel advisories. Additionally, nearly all airspace in the region has reopened following an improvement in the security situation, marked by the April 8 ceasefire announcement.