The two Malaysian nationals who were released on 22 December 2010 by an unidentified group in southern Philippines safely returned to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia at 5.45 pm on 24 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. The successful release and return of the two Malaysians is a reflection of the close cooperation present between the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and Philippine National Police (PNP).
The two Malaysians were accompanied back to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah by H.E. Dato Seri Dr. Ibrahim Saad, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines; as well as officers from the Royal Malaysian Police. They were received at Kota Kinabalu International Airport by H.E. Datuk Peter Pang, Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah; SAC Tan Kok Liang, Deputy Police Commissioner of Sabah; and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Regional Office in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
A Press Conference was held at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport upon the arrival of the two Malaysians.
The Embassy wishes the two Malaysians and their families a joyful reunion, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
Putrajaya
25 December 2010