Kim Jong- nam’s body remains in Malaysia amid talks with N. Korea

The body of Kim Jong- nam, who was murdered in Malaysia last month, is still in Kuala Lumpur, Health Minister Subramaniam Sathasivam said on Tuesday, amid reports the remains of the estranged half brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong- un will soon leave the country.

What Malaysia eventually does with the body, and how far it pursues three North Koreans wanted for questioning, and believed to be hiding in the North Korean embassy, are central to negotiations to resolve a diplomatic row between the two formerly friendly governments, sources aware of the talks have told Reuters.

Malaysia is trying to secure the release of nine nationals who have been stranded in Pyongyang after North Korea, angered by the suspicion cast by the police investigation, imposed a travel ban on Malaysians leaving its borders.

In response, Malaysia imposed a titfor- tat travel ban, and called on North Korea to immediately release all its citizens. There was speculation that some deal had been worked out on Monday, sparking media reports that the body was moved out of the hospital to a funeral parlor, and later was being prepared to be taken on a flight to Beijing.

Malaysia’s New Straits Times newspaper reported on Tuesday that the body was expected to go from Beijing to North Korea, without disclosing its source for the information.

“We have to check with the forensics department if there was any requirement to bring the body out, but as far as we are concerned there is no change in status quo,” Subramaniam said.

Subramaniam said the ministry cannot do anything with the body until they are given instructions by “those responsible for the body.”

“But the next of kin have not come forward to provide assistance on how the body is to be treated,” he said.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she had noted the reports about talks between Malaysia and North Korea, but did not know any details.

“We hope that the relevant parties can appropriately resolve the issue via dialogue and consultation,” she told a daily news briefing.