Malaysia said on Tuesday it was working around the clock to verify the condition and whereabouts of Malaysians aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 after Israeli forces intercepted the convoy in international waters on April 29. [1]
The Foreign Ministry said it had intensified diplomatic engagement and domestic coordination after communications were lost with most of the 22 vessels in the flotilla. It said the safety and well-being of its citizens was its utmost priority and that it was gathering verified intelligence from the ground. [1]
Initial reports said 36 Malaysians from various non-governmental groups were taking part in the mission, but separate updates confirmed at least 10 Malaysians were directly affected across multiple vessels. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said only one vessel had been contacted by 7pm on Thursday. He identified that vessel as TamTam. [1]
Fahmi said the government strongly condemned the interception. The ministry called the seizure unlawful and provocative and said the incident involved Malaysian citizens. [1]
TamTam had earlier been out of contact for more than 10 hours after its communication systems and engine were allegedly sabotaged, according to the ministry's update. Malaysia said it has no diplomatic ties with Israel and has mobilised its missions in neighbouring countries to contact foreign governments and international agencies for official confirmation. [1]
The government urged the public to rely on official sources, especially the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre, government agencies and mainstream media, as it continued efforts to confirm the status of those on board. [1]
