Middle East crisis: DAP Sarawak calls for clear timeline and transparent plan for stranded Malaysians

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Soo calls on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia to urgently assist Malaysians stranded in Oman following Middle East flight disruptions.

Kuching: Recently, the situation in the Middle East has continued to be tense, with military conflicts breaking out across multiple countries, creating a highly complex and serious security environment.

DAP Sarawak has received appeals for help from a group of Malaysian citizens stranded in Oman due to flight disruptions.

Their luggage has not arrived with them, daily necessities are lacking, and they are under significant physical and mental stress.

According to the individuals involved, they have sought assistance from the Malaysian Embassy in Oman.

The Embassy responded that it is closely monitoring the regional situation and maintaining contact with airlines. Any evacuation arrangements still require approval from the capital.

At present, the authorities emphasise that the safety of Malaysians is the top priority.

We understand the coordination challenges the Ministry of Foreign Affairs faces in the current complex situation.

However, under the shadow of ongoing conflict and with restricted regional flight routes, the anxiety and practical difficulties faced by stranded Malaysians cannot be ignored.

In particular, while Omani airspace remains open, flights to Qatar cross high-risk airspace, and arrangements for return flights remain obstructed, making the journey home highly uncertain.

The DAP Sarawak hereby solemnly urges:

  1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should establish a clear timeline and communication mechanism so that stranded Malaysians can stay informed of the latest developments, preventing the lack of information from exacerbating panic.
  2. Alternative arrangements, such as chartered flights or transit via a third country, should be explored to prioritise assisting those in urgent need to return home.
  3. Measures should be taken to ensure that Malaysians in the area receive basic living support and essential supplies, not just formal visits.

We also express our concern and support to all Malaysians currently in the Middle East.

If you or your relatives are facing similar difficulties, please reach out to the DAP Sarawak.

We will do our best to relay requests, coordinate with relevant agencies, and continue monitoring government actions to ensure that every citizen’s safety and dignity are protected.

Amid an unstable international situation, no citizen should feel isolated or abandoned.

DAP Sarawak will continue to follow developments closely and calls on the authorities to act in a more proactive, transparent, and responsible manner to address the situation of stranded Malaysians.

Soo Tien Ren
DAPSY Stampin Chief
Special Assistant to Stampin MP YB Chong Chieng Jen
3 March 2026