Over 29,000 Malaysians in Middle East as airspace closures disrupt flights
Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry is reaching out to several countries to coordinate possible repatriation efforts for Malaysians stranded by airspace closures following US-Israel strikes on Iran.
Government Monitoring Situation Closely
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told Parliament that the government is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East after US-Israel bombings of Iran triggered widespread flight disruptions.
Speaking during an urgent session in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar said Wisma Putra is actively coordinating efforts to safeguard Malaysians in the affected region.
Over 29,000 Malaysians in Region
Anwar said more than 29,112 Malaysians—both registered and unregistered—are working across the region. The largest numbers are in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
“As a government, we are naturally responsible for preserving and ensuring the safety of Malaysians to guarantee their security while they are there,” he said.
Repatriation Efforts Underway
The Foreign Ministry is reaching out to several countries to coordinate possible repatriation if necessary. However, airspace closures and flight restrictions are complicating evacuation efforts.
Anwar noted that flights are currently permitted from Saudi Arabia, but there is still uncertainty regarding flight operations in other countries.
Casualties Reported in Iran
According to Iran’s Red Crescent Society, at least 201 people were killed and more than 700 wounded in the joint strikes that began on Saturday.
Most of those killed were reported to be children, the agency said, as bombardments continued despite earlier reports of ongoing diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington over Iran’s nuclear program.
Commitment to Citizen Safety
Anwar emphasized that protecting Malaysians abroad remains the government’s top priority. Malaysian embassies in the region are assisting affected individuals while monitoring developments.
Authorities said they will continue to assess the evolving security situation and take necessary steps to ensure Malaysians can return home safely if required.
With tens of thousands of Malaysians residing in the Middle East, Malaysia is preparing contingency plans amid rising regional instability. While flight restrictions remain a challenge, the government says it stands ready to coordinate evacuations to ensure citizen safety.
Sources: Malay Mail (2026) , Malay Mail (2026)
Keywords: Malaysia Evacuation Plan, US Israel Iran Strikes, Malaysians In Qatar UAE, Airspace Closure Middle East, Dewan Rakyat Statement
