PETALING JAYA: Four Malaysian nationals have been confirmed to be onboard the bus that plunged into a lake in Norway on Thursday (Dec 26).
Wisma Putra stated that the four passengers, who sustained minor injuries, have been relocated to crisis centres at two nearby hotels—Hotel Richard in Stokmarknes and Thon Hotel in Lofoten.
"Four Malaysian nationals have been confirmed to be staying at Thon Hotel, where they have been provided with accommodations.
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"However, due to ongoing investigations, these passengers have not been allowed access to phones or direct communication with the outside world.
"The hotel staff are also restricted from initiating contact with the passengers," the statement said on Saturday (Dec 28).
The Foreign Ministry, through the Embassy of Malaysia in Stockholm, is closely monitoring developments following the bus accident near Lake Åsvatnet, Norway, to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected Malaysian nationals.
The embassy’s consular team is actively working with Norwegian authorities to determine the total number of Malaysians involved and to provide necessary assistance.
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"The ongoing investigation, coupled with severe winter conditions—including heavy snowfall, strong winds, and the considerable distance of approximately 1,500km from Oslo—has posed significant logistical challenges in accessing and supporting the affected individuals.
"Despite these challenges, the Foreign Ministry and the Embassy of Malaysia remain steadfast in their commitment to assisting the Malaysian nationals involved," the statement read.
The ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.
ALSO READ: Three dead, four seriously injured in northern Norway bus accident
Earlier, Wisma Putra said a consular team had been dispatched to provide immediate assistance and support to Malaysian nationals affected by the bus accident in Norway.
Of the 58 passengers on board, three died while four sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Stokmarknes Hospital.
The crash involved foreign tourists from China, Singapore, India, Netherlands, Malaysia, South Sudan, France, and Ukraine.
The bus carrying several foreign tourists had gone off the road and ended up partially submerged in a lake near the Raftsundet Strait, which separates the Lofoten archipelago from the Norwegian mainland.
The Lofoten archipelago is a popular winter destination to watch the northern lights.