KUALA LUMPUR – Up to 17 Malaysian nationals are among hundreds of tourists reported uncontactable following devastating flash floods in Nepal’s Rasuwa district near the Tibetan border, according to preliminary information from the Nepal Tourism Board.
The sudden disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall and a major surge along the Bhote Koshi River, caused widespread destruction in the mountainous region, damaging roads, bridges, settlements and communication infrastructure. The disruption has affected electricity and mobile networks, making it difficult for authorities and travel agencies to establish contact with those in the affected areas.
The Nepal Tourism Board said 384 tourists and trekkers, including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali citizens, were reported out of contact following the floods. Preliminary details received from tourism and travel companies indicated that those affected included 17 Malaysians, along with nationals from several other countries.
Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) confirmed that the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu had received reports from travel agencies that contact had been lost with 11 Malaysian nationals believed to be in Nepal’s Rasuwa district following the disaster.
Wisma Putra said the loss of communication was believed to be directly linked to severe disruptions to communication networks and electricity supply caused by the floods.
“The Embassy is actively coordinating with local authorities and the search and rescue teams currently being deployed by the Nepalese government to locate the affected Malaysians and ascertain their safety,” it said in a media advisory on Wednesday.
The ministry said it would continue working closely with Nepalese authorities and rescue teams on the ground while monitoring developments and providing further updates once verified information regarding the Malaysian nationals becomes available.
Wisma Putra advised Malaysians residing in or travelling through Nepal, especially those near the affected regions, to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety and comply with all instructions issued by local authorities.
It also urged Malaysians to register and regularly update their contact details through the e-Konsular portal at https://ekonsular.kln.gov.my.
For immediate consular assistance or emergencies, Malaysian citizens may contact the Embassy of Malaysia in Kathmandu at +977 1 544 5680 / +977 1 544 5681 (general), +977 1 544 5689 (consular), or the emergency helpline at +977 980 100 8000. They may also email [email protected].
Media reports said the flash floods swept through the Bhote Koshi River area in northern Nepal’s Rasuwa district on Wednesday morning, causing severe damage to markets, settlements and key infrastructure. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to locate those missing. – August 26, 2026