FOREIGN MINISTRY CLOSELY MONITORING SITUATION IN INDIA AND PAKISTAN, ASSISTING AFFECTED MALAYSIANS

PUTRAJAYA, May 13 (Bernama) – The Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring developments in South Asia, particularly concerning the safety of Malaysians in India and Pakistan.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry said it has been in constant communication with the Malaysian High Commissions in New Delhi and Islamabad, as well as consular offices in both countries, to obtain the latest updates.

The diplomatic missions have also been liaising with Malaysians in both nations to ensure their safety.

“This includes providing consular assistance and advisory services to Malaysians stranded due to the closure of airspace and disruption of airline operations affecting 32 airports in northern and western India, as well as airports in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi in Pakistan,” the statement read.

The ministry added that in India, the High Commission in New Delhi, along with the Consulates General in Mumbai and Chennai, have been assisting over 350 Malaysians who are travelling or working in the affected areas.

In Pakistan, the High Commission in Islamabad and the Consulate General in Karachi have been actively offering help in terms of accommodation, welfare, and travel arrangements for affected Malaysians through various routes.

According to the Foreign Ministry, as of Tuesday (May 13), more than 100 Malaysians have received assistance, with most having either returned home or scheduled to do so soon.

As a precaution, Malaysians currently in India and Pakistan, particularly those near border areas, are advised to register their presence with the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission.

The ministry also urged Malaysians to postpone any non-essential travel to border areas and to remain in safer locations.

Malaysians requiring consular assistance may contact the High Commission in New Delhi during office hours via +9011 2415 9300 or +9011 2415 9311. For after-hours emergencies, they can call the emergency line at +90 85955 50564.

For those in Pakistan, the High Commission in Islamabad can be reached during office hours at +9251 2072900 extensions 123 or 125. For emergencies outside office hours, they may contact +9230 2844 3021.

In addition, Malaysians can also seek assistance from the Consular Division of the Foreign Ministry in Putrajaya by calling +603 8887 4412 or +603 8887 4771 during office hours.

For after-hours emergencies, they may contact the 108 Operations Room at +603 8887 4570.

International media reported that Indian authorities reopened 32 airports on Monday, which had been closed to civilian air traffic following airspace restrictions due to heightened tensions with Pakistan last week.

-- BERNAMA