KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims of a devastating earthquake in China's Xizang Autonomous Region and to those affected by its tremors in Nepal.
"My deepest condolences go out to all those affected by the devastating earthquake in China's Xizang Autonomous Region.
"Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the communities grappling with loss and destruction. May they find the strength, courage, and support needed to endure and recover during this difficult time," he said in a statement on Facebook and Instagram.
"Malaysia stands in solidarity with the government and people of China as they respond to this tragic disaster," he said, extending similar sentiments to Nepal, where the earthquake was also strongly felt.
"Our thoughts also extend to Nepal, as both nations face the challenges of rebuilding and healing in the aftermath of this calamity," he added.
Earlier today (Jan 7), a powerful earthquake in China's remote Tibet region killed at least nine people and collapsed "many buildings," state media reported, with tremors also felt in neighbouring Nepal's capital Kathmandu.
The quake struck Dingri county with a magnitude of 6.8 near the border with Nepal at 9.05am, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). The US Geological Survey reported the quake as magnitude 7.1.
The Foreign Ministry confirmed that no Malaysians have been reported to be affected but urged Malaysians in Nepal to remain vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities, and exercise caution in the aftermath of the earthquake.