The two Malaysian nationals, who had been held captive by an unidentified group in the southern Philippines, have been released on 22 December 2010. Mr. Lai Wing Chou (33) and Mr. Tsen Vui Chung (41) were abducted while working at a seaweed farm in Semporna, Sabah on 7 February 2010.
Both Malaysians were received by Ambassador of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Dr. Ibrahim Saad in Manila today, after being escorted from the southern Philippines by officials of the Malaysian Embassy, Philippines National Police and Royal Malaysian Police.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia extends its sincere appreciation for the cooperation of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and all the parties involved in securing the release of Mr. Lai Wing Chou and Mr. Tsen Vui Chung from their captors.
Mr. Lai Wing Chou and Mr. Tsen Vui Chung are expected to return to Sabah on 24 December 2010. The Ministry hopes they and their respective families will be able to resume normal life after enduring the traumatic and painful episode.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
Putrajaya
22 December 2010
