Malaysia is poised to send DNA experts to Nepal to assist in the identification of victims after severe floods and landslides, pending approval from Nepalese authorities. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan announced that Malaysia has sought permission to dispatch these specialists, whose work will commence following the conclusion of search and rescue operations. Their role will focus on matching DNA samples from recovered bodies with those provided by the families of missing Malaysian nationals.
Currently, Malaysia has collected DNA samples from the relatives of 55 Malaysians who remain unaccounted for in the aftermath of the natural disasters. Given the urgency and limited resources, some bodies were interred swiftly, necessitating DNA testing as a vital tool for accurate identification.
The Malaysian team, consisting of 11 personnel, is equipped with 12.4 tonnes of rescue gear. This includes detection tools, communication systems, high-capacity drones, and specialized equipment for tunnel rescues. Additionally, they have a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a 10-tonne truck to aid in their efforts.
Malaysia anticipates that the integration of search, rescue, and DNA identification operations will be instrumental in locating the missing individuals, ultimately providing closure and confirmation for the families of those affected.