malaysiang
SEREMBAN: Malaysians traveling abroad for tourism, work, or further studies should notify the embassies in the countries they are visiting of their whereabouts and contact numbers. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized that this measure is crucial to facilitate communication during emergencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Foreign Minister stressed the importance of Malaysians providing their address and phone number to the nearest embassy. He noted that without this information, the government might not have a record of their presence, which becomes particularly important for students studying independently who may not register with the embassy. Mohamad made these remarks following the ninth Annual General Meeting of the National Solidarity Association (Persona).
The minister’s comments come amid allegations involving a Malaysian citizen reportedly acting as a mercenary in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The individual’s MyKad and driver’s licence were found on a Ukrainian
battlefield. Information suggests that the individual is believed to be a student in Ukraine. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is not directly involved in this issue yet, Mohamad assured that they are monitoring the situation and are prepared to assist if necessary.
He mentioned that the Ministry of Higher Education and the Malaysian Armed Forces are currently looking into the matter, as the individual is alleged to be a student. This follows images shared on social media showing a Malaysian MyKad and driver’s licence with a Perlis address, discovered after Russian forces captured an enemy stronghold in Levadne, Zaporizhia, Ukraine. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that the police have contacted the Russian Embassy in Malaysia, while Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir stated that his ministry is gathering information on the case.
In a separate context, Mohamad discussed his participation in the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024) i
n Apia, Samoa. He highlighted that climate change and rising sea levels threatening island nations were among the critical topics discussed. Mohamad acknowledged the complexity of addressing climate change, which requires substantial technology, funding, and support from developed nations. He reiterated the global commitment to combat global warming and aim to limit the temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2030.
As the patron of Persona, Mohamad expressed hope that the association would bridge the gap between the government and the people by helping to disseminate policies and initiatives effectively.
