Talks underway on DNA matching

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 13, 2026

The Malaysian government is working with Nepal to transfer DNA samples from unidentified flood victims to help identify missing Malaysians after recent deadly flooding. This cooperation addresses Nepal’s limited local forensic capabilities and supports ongoing efforts by Malaysian authorities to confirm the status of 55 nationals reported missing.

The Malaysian government is in discussions with Nepali authorities to facilitate the transfer of DNA samples from unidentified bodies recovered in Nepal to Kuala Lumpur. This move aims to assist in matching the DNA with family members of missing Malaysians following recent flooding in the region, according to Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

The talks reflect challenges faced by Nepali officials due to limited facilities and infrastructure for conducting DNA analyses locally. “There is a lack of facilities and infrastructure there,” Mohamad said at the Umno annual general assembly in Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu is also engaged in efforts to verify the status of 55 Malaysians reported missing in Nepal. To date, there has been no communication with these individuals.

Mohamad, also known as Tok Mat, noted that the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART), which spent a week in Nepal supporting relief efforts, is scheduled to return to Malaysia imminently. The team will submit its findings to the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma). Further decisions on Malaysia’s involvement will be based on Nadma’s assessment. “We will not make any rushed decision,” he said, emphasizing a measured response.

In addition to ongoing discussions, the Malaysian team plans to hand over drones to Nepali rescue authorities to aid in their search and relief operations. The severe flooding, which struck the Nepal-China border on August 26, has resulted in approximately 1,500 confirmed deaths and left 5,649 individuals missing.

On a separate note, Mohamad highlighted the importance of Malaysians abroad maintaining a positive image of their country. He emphasized that compliance with local laws in host countries is essential to preserving Malaysia’s favorable international reputation. “Whenever the Prime Minister or I have the opportunity to meet Malaysians abroad, we always urge them to safeguard the country’s image,” he said.

Mohamad also mentioned ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure travel concessions for Malaysians, including visa facilitation. He cited a recent arrangement whereby Malaysians holding valid United States visas are no longer required to obtain a visa to visit Canada. These initiatives are part of broader efforts by Wisma Putra to enhance international mobility for Malaysian citizens.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.