KUCHING: Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri has taken prompt action to coordinate the repatriation process for Sarawakian Nur Haslinda Abdullah who passed away in Seoul, South Korea, on Dec 25.
Efforts have been actively undertaken by the office of the Santubong Member of Parliament to streamline the documentation process among the deceased’s family, Wisma Putra, and the Malaysian Embassy in South Korea.
To expedite crucial expenses related to hospital costs, funeral arrangements, and the repatriation procedure, an initial contribution of RM31,082.25 was facilitated by Nancy on behalf of the family.
Prior to this, a generous sum of RM50,000, amassed from both family and public donations, had been allocated to cover hospital expenses, management of the deceased, and burial arrangements.
“If we delay in taking action, the costs of these processes will escalate. Hence, my office has proactively advanced these payments as swiftly as possible.
“Thank you to the Malaysian community, which generously contributed. In times of hardship, there are those who show concern. Much cooperation has been given to facilitate proceedings.
“My duty is to assist in easing the process so that she can be brought back to Kuching,” she said when speaking to the deceased’s family through a virtual meeting at her office today.
Nancy acknowledged the Consular Division of Wisma Putra, represented by Arsi Shah Erwan, and the second secretary of the Malaysian Embassy in Seoul, Sofiah Othman, for their crucial support during this challenging time.
The remains of the late Nur Haslinda Abdullah, aged 30, from Kampung Sejingkat, who worked in a factory and was admitted to Cheonju Hospital in South Korea, are scheduled to arrive from Seoul on Jan 4, 2024.
Her elder brother, Abdul Hafiz Abdullah, said he was informed by the embassy about her illness and her desire to return home. Her deteriorating health necessitated hospitalisation, and her transfer to another medical facility was communicated by a friend. The embassy later conveyed the tragic news of her passing.
