One of the 55 Malaysians reported missing following the devastating floods in Nepal has been located and returned safely to Malaysia, according to officials and representatives of affected families. The individual, a Chinese Malaysian who was traveling alone, had been unaccounted for since the disaster struck the Nepal-China border region on August 26.

The floods, caused by the collapse of a Himalayan glacier, resulted in a surge of water and debris that officials estimate to be equivalent to a magnitude 5.2 earthquake. More than 1,400 people have been reported dead, with thousands still missing.

The Malaysian, who was last known to be at Nagthali Viewpoint on August 25, became stranded after roads and bridges were destroyed, and infrastructure such as electricity and water supplies were disrupted. The individual reported to the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu and was confirmed safe before returning home. The discovery was described as a meaningful development by Malaysia Solidarity: Families in Hope (Masfih), the group representing relatives of the missing. Masfih spokesman Manivannan Rethinam expressed gratitude for the reunion after 37 days of uncertainty and noted that the finding reduces the number of missing Malaysians from 55 to 54.

Officials confirmed the matter but advised that further details could be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra). Manivannan also said he had contacted the individual’s next-of-kin, who verified the safe return.

In light of the ongoing situation, the Malaysian Prime Minister has instructed the Attorney-General to expedite the legal procedures involved for those still missing. Masfih has indicated it is awaiting meetings with the Attorney General’s Chambers and Bank Negara, as well as requesting an audience with the Prime Minister. The group wants to better understand the government’s next steps for the families involved, review developments over the past month, and discuss any urgent actions needed at the highest levels.

The tragedy remains a significant humanitarian crisis in Nepal, with search and rescue operations continuing amid difficult terrain and the aftermath of one of the deadliest glacier-related floods in recent history. Malaysian authorities and advocacy groups remain engaged in efforts to locate the remaining missing nationals and support their families.