Malaysia is poised to send DNA specialists to Nepal to aid in identifying victims of recent floods and landslides, pending approval from the Nepalese authorities. According to Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, the deployment will commence once search and rescue operations are concluded. The DNA experts will assist by matching samples from recovered bodies with those collected from families of missing Malaysians.
Efforts are already underway in Malaysia, where DNA samples have been gathered from relatives of 55 Malaysian nationals who remain missing after the calamities. Given that some of the recovered bodies were interred swiftly due to limited resources, DNA testing has become a crucial step in the identification process.
The team set to travel to Nepal is composed of 11 personnel and is equipped with 12.4 tonnes of rescue gear. Their arsenal includes detection tools, communication systems, and high-capacity drones, as well as specialized equipment for tunnel rescues. They are also bringing along a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a 10-tonne truck to support their operations.
Malaysia is committed to a comprehensive approach that combines search, rescue, and DNA identification measures. This initiative aims to locate the missing victims and provide their families with much-needed closure regarding their loved ones’ fates.