Dewan Rakyat commemorates third anniversary of MH370 tragedy

THE Dewan Rakyat observed a moment of silence in remembering the victims of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 which vanished exactly three years ago, yesterday.

Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker, Datuk Seri Ismail Mohamed Said requested the Muslims to read the surah Al-Fatihah while nonMuslims observed a minute’s silence.

Earlier, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai after reading a statement to commemorate the tragedy also urged the assembly to pray for solutions in unraveling the mystery of the missing Boeing 777 aircraft.

He said the Jan 17 announcement on the suspension of the international search operation for the missing aircraft did not mean the end of the government’s commitment in solving the unfortunate incident.

“The suspension of the search which came more than two and a half years after the mission was launched was indeed, a difficult decision and will be felt by everyone, especially the next- of-kin and friends of the victims.

“It was a tough decision for the Malaysian, Chinese and Australian governments.

“Although the search is currently suspended, pending more convincing evidence based on comprehensive information and analysis of data by a group of experts in Australia, the aspiration to locate MH370 has not been abandoned,” he added.

Liow also took the opportunity to express the government’s appreciation to Australia and China for their cooperation since the search was launched.

“Our thanks also go to all the countries and organisations which came forward to provide us assistance in those challenging times,” said the minister.

Liow noted that although the country was still in grief following the disappearance of the aircraft and victims, the people should strengthen solidarity and remain united in remembering the MH370 tragedy.

He also urged the families and friends of the Flight MH370 victims to remain strong and steadfast in facing the days ahead without their loved ones. — Bernama