KUANTAN: Malaysians living in Sri Lanka are advised against taking part in any rallies or protests, especially ahead of the presidential election there.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah said although the situation in Sri Lanka was under control, Malaysians still needed to take care of their safety.
“Malaysians (in Sri Lanka) are also advised to be constantly in contact with Malawakil (the Malaysian Representative Office) and not to easily believe in rumours.
“They should also check and verify the authenticity of any information received with Malawakil,” he told a press conference after presenting prizes to winners of the MGTF Taekwon-Do Championship 2022 for Schools and Clubs in Pahang here yesterday.
He said so far a total of 126 Malaysians had registered with the Malaysian High Commission in Sri Lanka, Bernama reported.
Saifuddin added that although the ministry had no plans as yet to evacuate Malaysians in Sri Lanka, it was ready to do so at any time.
According to international media reports, Sri Lanka has been grappling with an unprecedented economic and financial crisis after it failed to repay external loans totalling US$51bil (RM226bil) and was seeking help from the International Monetary Fund.
On the eighth anniversary of the MH17 tragedy, Saifuddin said Malaysia adhered to the principle of not pointing fingers at any country until the judicial process had been completed.
“We are aware that there are quarters that want to drag or accuse certain parties, but Malaysia has always adhered to the principle of law and a transparent investigation and judgment must be carried out first.
“Up till today, there has been no decision and therefore Malaysia’s stance has not changed despite some urging us to make statements,” he said.
He also hoped that the investigation into the incident could be completed soon.