KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, expressed sympathies to the people of Japan in the Ishikawa region that was struck by an earthquake on Monday (Jan 1).

       Anwar said on Facebook that the government, through the Foreign Ministry and the Malaysian Embassy in Japan, were monitoring the latest developments closely.

       "May those affected be granted strength and patience during this difficult and challenging time, including our people there,” he said.

       The 7.6 magnitude earthquake triggered tsunami warnings along coastal regions of western Japan, with small tsunami waves reaching its shores.

       Earlier, the Foreign Ministry noted that no Malaysians were involved or affected by the disaster.

       Wisma Putra also advised Malaysians in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the latest updates and advice issued by the local authorities.

       Malaysians requiring consular assistance can contact the Malaysian Embassy in Tokyo at +81-3-3476-3840 or +8180-3913-3840 (emergency) and email mwtokyo@kln.gov.my or consular.tyo@kln.gov.my. - Bernama

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