KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian students affected by current developments in Bangladesh have been relocated to the Malaysian High Commission's office in Dhaka, the Foreign Ministry said.
In a statement today, the ministry said that the safety of Malaysians abroad remains its priority and that it is closely monitoring the latest developments in Bangladesh.
"The ministry understands the concerns of Malaysians regarding the safety of their family members in Bangladesh.
"The ministry and the High Commission of Malaysia in Dhaka are considering all available options, including evacuation, if necessary.
"The ministry is collaborating with the Higher Education Ministry as well as other relevant agencies to assist Malaysian students in Bangladesh," the statement said.
The ministry advised all Malaysian students to remain in contact and cooperate fully with the High Commission.
"The ministry has activated the Operation Room, which immediate family members of Malaysian students in Bangladesh may reach at +603-8887 4570 or taskforcebangladesh@kln.gov.my."
The ministry also urged Malaysians to exercise caution and verify any offers of assistance in evacuating from Bangladesh with the Operation Room.
"The ministry urges all Malaysians in Bangladesh to avoid protest areas, remain vigilant, and adhere to the instructions of local authorities, including any curfews that may be in place."
It was reported that 10 people died in clashes with police on Thursday in Dhaka – the highest toll in a single day so far, including a bus driver whose body was brought to a hospital with a bullet wound in his chest during the protest.
The protest, which is the biggest since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was re-elected for a fourth time, is fuelled by high unemployment among the youth – with nearly a fifth of the 170 million population out of work or education.