Malaysia is on standby to assist Nepal in the aftermath of the catastrophic floods and landslides by deploying a team of DNA experts to aid in the identification of victims. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan has indicated that Malaysia is awaiting approval from the Nepalese authorities to proceed with this mission. The DNA identification process is set to commence following the completion of search and rescue operations. The primary task of the Malaysian experts will be to match DNA samples from the recovered bodies with those collected from families of missing Malaysian nationals.
In preparation, Malaysia has already gathered DNA samples from the families of 55 Malaysians who are still missing after the natural disasters. Swift burials due to limited facilities have made DNA testing crucial for accurate identification of the deceased. This step is essential to provide closure to the families waiting for news about their loved ones.
The Malaysian team, comprising 11 personnel, is well-equipped for the mission, bringing with them 12.4 tonnes of rescue equipment. This arsenal includes detection tools, communication systems, and high-capacity drones to support their efforts. Additionally, specialized tunnel-rescue equipment has been prepared to handle challenging recovery scenarios. To facilitate their operations on the ground, the team has also brought along a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a 10-tonne truck.
It is hoped that the combined efforts in search, rescue, and DNA identification will not only expedite the location of missing individuals but also provide grieving families with the much-needed confirmation regarding their relatives’ fate. This coordinated mission underscores Malaysia’s commitment to international cooperation and humanitarian assistance in times of crisis.