PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are safe and have not been affected by security incidents in the country so far, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
He said the ministry received daily reports from the Malaysian Embassy in Riyadh and the Malaysian Consulate in Jeddah to monitor the safety and welfare of Malaysians working and studying in Saudi Arabia.
However, Malaysians there have been advised to avoid public areas and strategic locations that could be potential targets. They have also been told to remain at home unless it is necessary to go out.
They are also encouraged to use the e-Konsular facility to contact the embassy if they need assistance.
"The Malaysian Embassy remains in contact with Malaysians in the country to ensure their welfare and safety," he said at a press conference today.
Media reports said about 250 Malaysian students studying in Riyadh, Madinah and Makkah were safe, with lectures continuing as usual.
Following an attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, several universities in the city reportedly began conducting classes online from last Sunday. In Makkah and Madinah, classes continued in person.
Mohamad said some Malaysians were temporarily stranded in Jeddah following the cancellation of return flights, as several airlines, including Malaysian carriers, were unable to operate.
However, the situation was temporary, with Malaysia Airlines offering affected passengers accommodation at locations designated by the airline and making alternative flight arrangements.
Mohamad said Malaysians without urgent reasons to travel to Saudi Arabia had been advised to reschedule their trips as the security situation remained unsettled.
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