Govt sets up committee to bring home Malaysians from Hubei - Dr Dzulkefly

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 30 -- Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad today announced that a special committee on humanitarian assistance to bring home Malaysians from Hubei province, China, has been activated in the wake of the 2019 novel coronavirus infection.

He said the special committee comprised the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Foreign Ministry, the Health Ministry, the Malaysian Armed Forces, the National Security Council and local carriers AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.

“The committee aims to organise the safe return of Malaysians and their family members from Wuhan in Hubei, China.

“The Wisma Putra is in the process of ascertaining the number of Malaysians residing there to be flown home,” he told a news conference on the latest development on coronavirus here today.

Dr Dzulkefly said the Wisma Putra had also continued discussions with its counterpart in China on matters related to the mision.

In another development, Dr Dzulkefly said the Health Ministry would receive an additional 25 thermal scanners to be placed at the country’s entry points.

He said his ministry would continue to monitor the situation through information gathered from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He also refuted claims made by some quarters that his ministry appeared less efficient in dealing with coronavirus infection.

He said the ministry has implemented proactive measures, on top of the recommendations and advice from the WHO.

As of today, eight individuals have been tested positive for coronavirus in the country and all of them are Chinese nationals.

-- BERNAMA