Malaysian Nationals Involved in Bus Accident in Norway
PUTRAJAYA: At least four Malaysians are involved in a bus accident near Lake Åsvatnet in Norway on December 26, the Foreign Ministry confirmed on Saturday.
Background
The ministry, also known as Wisma Putra, issued a media advisory stating that passengers who sustained minor injuries have been housed at crisis centers at two nearby hotels – Hotel Richard in Stokmarknes and Thon Hotel in Lofoten. Four Malaysian nationals have been confirmed to be staying at the Thon Hotel, where they have been provided with accommodations.
Current Situation
However, due to ongoing investigations, these passengers have not been allowed access to phones or direct communication with the outside world. The hotel staff are also restricted from initiating contact with the passengers. The Malaysian embassy’s consular team is actively working with Norwegian authorities to determine the total number of Malaysians involved and to provide the necessary assistance.
Challenges
The ministry said that the ongoing investigation, coupled with severe winter conditions, including heavy snowfall, strong winds, and the considerable distance of approximately 1,500 km from Oslo, have posed significant logistical challenges in accessing and supporting the affected individuals. Despite these challenges, the ministry and the Malaysian embassy in Stockholm remain steadfast in their commitment to assisting the Malaysian nationals.
Next Steps
The ministry will provide updates as new information becomes available. For consular assistance, the Malaysian embassy in Stockholm can be reached at the address: Karlavägen 37, 114 31 Stockholm 26053 Stockholm, Sweden, or telephone +46 8440 8400 (general enquiries) / +46 73 536 9152 (after working hours and weekends) or email at mwstockholm@kln.gov.my.
Background to the Accident
On Thursday, a bus accident occurred near Lake Åsvatnet at 1:30 pm local time, involving passengers from several countries, including China, Singapore, India, the Netherlands, Malaysia, South Sudan, France, and Ukraine. The accident happened amid severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds, which caused the bus to lose control and crash. Of the 58 passengers on board, three fatalities have been reported, and four individuals have sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Stokmarknes Hospital.
Conclusion
The Malaysian government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its nationals involved in the accident and is working closely with Norwegian authorities to provide support and assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Malaysians are involved in the accident?
A: At least four Malaysian nationals are involved in the accident.
Q: What is the current situation of the affected Malaysians?
A: They are being housed at crisis centers at two nearby hotels and are being provided with accommodations, but have not been allowed access to phones or direct communication with the outside world.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and the Malaysian embassy’s consular team is working with Norwegian authorities to determine the total number of Malaysians involved and to provide the necessary assistance.
Q: How can I contact the Malaysian embassy in Stockholm for consular assistance?
A: The embassy can be reached at the address: Karlavägen 37, 114 31 Stockholm 26053 Stockholm, Sweden, or telephone +46 8440 8400 (general enquiries) / +46 73 536 9152 (after working hours and weekends) or email at mwstockholm@kln.gov.my.