KUALA LUMPUR: Wisma Putra has yet to confirm the authenticity of viral images showing Malaysian identification documents allegedly found on the battlefield between Ukraine and Russia.
The Foreign Ministry, in a statement today, said it has taken note of reports claiming that a Malaysian MyKad and driving licence were found in Levadne, Zaporizhia.
"At this time, we cannot confirm the authenticity of the information. The information has also been forwarded to the relevant authorities for verification.
"We respectfully request that the media and public refrain from making any speculations," the Ministry stated.
Additionally, Wisma Putra stressed that the safety of Malaysians abroad is the responsibility of each individual.
"While Malaysian Representative Offices are always prepared to provide consular assistance to Malaysians in need, it is important for all Malaysians to take precautions and ensure their own safety," it added.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin stated that the police is also verifying the authenticity of the information.
"At this time, police is checking whether it is true or otherwise, and we are also in contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further information," he said.
Earlier, several images circulated on social media, including one showing a MyKad Malaysian driving licence, purportedly found after Russian forces captured a Ukrainian military base in Levadne, Zaporizhia.
There were also claims on social media, along with these images, alleging that they belonged to a Malaysian citizen, though it is unclear if the individual was killed or detained by Russian forces.
One of the viral images reportedly shows a driving licence belonging to an individual with an address in a northern state of Peninsular Malaysia, valid until February 2025.
In January, reports surfaced that Malaysians were allegedly acting as mercenaries for Russia in the Russia-Ukraine war. However, Razarudin denied these claims.