Most burial orders issued for Indonesians killed in Hong Kong blaze

The remains of nine Indonesian nationals who died in the devastating Tai Po inferno could soon be returned to their home country, as most burial orders have now been issued, the Post has learned.

The Indonesian consulate in Hong Kong told the Post on Thursday morning that a visit by a delegation from the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had led to the “swift handling” of the remains of the nine nationals – the largest number of non-Chinese victims, both dead and injured, in the blaze.

“The delegation conducted productive meetings and coordination with relevant Hong Kong authorities and other related stakeholders, which led to the swift handling of Indonesian nationals affected by the fire incident,” the consulate spokesman said.

The nine victims, aged between 33 and 48, came from various parts of Indonesia, including the East and Central Java provinces.

Most of them have now been issued burial orders, the spokesman added.

“At the moment, the consulate is in close coordination with the related funeral house to further process the remains and necessary permits, such as customs and excise clearance and consignment arrangement with the carrier flight, including any necessary religious ritual in accordance with the will of the related families,” he said.