Deep Dive: Family of woman missing in Kuala Lumpur sinkhole urges government for death certificate to claim compensation

The incident at Jalan Masjid India highlights the challenges faced by families of missing persons in presumed fatal accidents, particularly when no body is recovered. G. Vijaya Lakshmi's case, occurring in August 2024, underscores the procedural hurdles in Malaysia's legal system for declaring someone deceased absent physical evidence. The family's lawyer, Muhamad Saifullah Muhamad Azmi, emphasized the necessity of a death certificate for initiating compensation, a process stalled since the sinkhole incident in Kuala Lumpur. In Malaysia, the National Registration Department (JPN) requires specific conditions for presumptive death declarations, often involving court orders after a statutory period, typically seven years for missing persons, though exceptions exist for catastrophic events. The application to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) and JPN reflects standard protocol, but delays can exacerbate emotional and financial distress for next-of-kin, especially foreign nationals like Vijaya Lakshmi from India. This case draws attention to urban infrastructure risks in densely populated areas like Jalan Masjid India, where sinkholes pose sudden hazards. Stakeholders include the victim's family seeking closure and compensation, government bodies handling registrations and legal advice, and potentially insurers or employers if claims involve workplace or public liability. The press conference in Klang amplifies their plea, pressuring authorities for expedited resolution. Broader implications touch on migrant worker protections, as many from India face similar vulnerabilities abroad without swift administrative support. Looking ahead, a favorable response could set precedent for similar sinkhole or disaster-related disappearances, streamlining processes for death certifications. However, ongoing classification as missing prolongs uncertainty, impacting inheritance, insurance, and repatriation efforts. This situation illustrates the intersection of public safety, administrative efficiency, and family rights in modern urban settings.