LOCAL banks are offering repayment deferments and flexible payment arrangements to families of 54 Malaysians still missing after floods and debris flows in Nepal, as efforts continue to establish the victims’ status.
The Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) said the assistance had been available since early October, with participating banks also reaching out directly to affected families.
It said it understood the profound grief and uncertainty facing the families and next of kin, stressing that their welfare remained a priority.
“To facilitate access to assistance, member banks have also appointed dedicated liaison officers to guide next of kin, coordinate applications, assist with documentation and manage the necessary administrative processes,” ABM said in a statement today.
The association said it and its member banks remained committed to working constructively with Bank Negara Malaysia and other relevant parties to support affected families with care, compassion and respect.
The disaster struck on Aug 26, when severe flooding and debris flows near the Nepal-China border swept through settlements and transport routes, carrying mud, rocks and debris and causing widespread destruction.
Initially, 55 Malaysians were reported uncontactable following the disaster. One was subsequently confirmed safe and returned to Malaysia in early October, leaving 54 still unaccounted for.
Efforts to establish their status are continuing through cooperation between Malaysian and Nepalese authorities. - October 23, 2026