KUALA LUMPUR: Wisma Putra is closely monitoring the situation in Syria and its potential implications for regional stability after rebel forces took over major cities in the country.
In a statement, Wisma Putra said they are actively in communication with Malaysians in Syria through the Honorary Consul there.
"Up to now, all 37 registered Malaysian students and five other Malaysians in the country are reported to be safe."
It also said it will provide updates to ensure the safety and well-being of Malaysians.
"Malaysians in Syria and countries in the region are encouraged to register their presence via E-Konsular at https://ekonsular.kln.gov.my to receive timely updates and assistance if required.
"Should any Malaysians require consular assistance, they should contact the Honorary Consul in Syria or the Malaysian embassy in Amman."
The Honorary Consul can be contacted via telephone at +963 93324 5555 or email at samir@honconsuladvisor.my, while the Malaysian embassy in Jordan can be reached at +962 6 590 2400 / +962 6593 4343 or mwamman@kln.gov.my.
Earlier today, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad boarded a plane and left Damascus for an unknown destination, two senior army officers told Reuters, as rebels said they had entered the capital with no sign of army deployments.
This follows the announcement of rebel forces gaining full control of the key city of Homs after only a day of fighting and advancing towards the capital Damascus in a lightning offensive that prompted United States and other Western officials to predict Assad's rule could end within the next week.
The rebels, which advanced into Aleppo a week ago, also saw government defences swiftly crumbling as insurgents seized a string of major cities in the country.