updated version

Twenty-three Malaysians have been identified as working at the World Trade Center in New York City, out of which 10 are still missing, according to the latest update from Wisma Putra.

Foreign Affairs Minister Syed Hamid Albar released the figures at a press conference in Wisma Putra, Kuala Lumpur this morning.

The 10 Malaysians - six men and four women - who have yet to be located are: Kim Kee (36), Lee Thong Yee (25), Loh Lean Yee (40), Jen Nie (31), Ang Siew Nya (37), Ee Lin See (25), Emily Quah Li Ting (26), Khoo Sei Lai (38), Vijay Shanker and Gerard Philips (the last two unregistered).

Those reported to be safe are eight men and five women: Chuah Chai Chuan (55), Gerard Kim Siang Yeo (45), Ng Boon See (38), Alan Ong See Inn @ Ong See Ann (54), Kalidass Kanagaratham, Daniel Cheng Lai Soon, Chen Chee Sun, and Michael Nambiar (the last four unregistered), Loh Poh Choo (36), Wong Moy Hiang (38), Chew Eu Leen (25), Shanty Nambiar and Pauline Liew (the last two unregistered).

Yesterday, the number of Malaysians working at the WTC was last recorded at 21, with eight safe and 13 missing.

The Sun daily today quoted a Wisma Putra official as saying that she was unable to confirm if any Malaysians were on the four commercial planes which were hijacked and used in the terrorist attacks.

Two of the jetliners hit the WTC, one, the Pentagon in Washington DC and another believed to be headed to the White House, crashed in Pennsylvania.

Based on passport renewal records, there are almost 9,000 Malaysians in New York, who registered with the consulate there. However, unofficially, there are an estimated 30,000 to 60,000 Malaysians residing in the area.

Those who wish to inquire and provide information about their families and friends in New York and Washington may contact Wisma Putra's 24-hour hotlines at 03-88892745, 03-88892748 or 03-88874570.

The Malaysian embassy's operation centres in US can be reached at 202-328 2747 (Washington DC), 212-758 9034 (New York), 213-892 1238 (Los Angeles), and 874-328 2440 (Chicago).