In a statement issued today, the department said the special team comprised two officers and two local staff who would manage about 1,400 Malaysians who want to leave Bali through land routes and leave the country through Juanda International Airport in Surabaya.

“The main focus of the team is to provide consular and immigration services. The team will work closely with the Indonesian directorate general of immigration, airline companies and local authorities to ensure a smooth evacuation process,” it said.

The I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar has been closed since 7.15am local time on Nov 27 following Mount Agung’s eruption.

The department also advised Malaysians in Bali to be in constant communication with their families and close friends to keep them updated on the situation and their safety.

For further information, Malaysians can contact the Malaysian embassy in Jakarta at +62 215224947 or + 62 8138083036 (24 hours) or send an e-mail to [email protected].

They can also contact the Malaysian Honorary Consul in Bali at +62 361 973 182 or +62 812 371 540 50 or e-mail to [email protected].