Earthquake: Two Malaysians in Ecuador reported safe

Two Malaysians working in Ecuador that was hit by an earthquake on Saturday are reported to be safe, said the Embassy of Malaysia in Chile.

The embassy confirmed that Foo Boon Kiat and Andrew Teoh Teck Keong, who work for Huawei Technologies Company Ltd, a Chinese multinational telecommunication company in Quito for the past one year, are all safe.

"They are both safe and sound. We are in communication with one of them on Sunday," said the embassy on Monday.

PHOTOS: Scores dead in powerful Ecuador quake

The Embassy of Malaysia in Chile is also accredited to Ecuador. The embassy will inform of any development from time to time.

Any Malaysian who may know that their relatives currently are visiting or residing in Ecuador, can contact the Duty Officer of the embassy at +56966657242.

READ: Ecuador digs for survivors

At 18:58 local time last Saturday, the earthquake struck with its epicentre at a depth of 10 kilometers located in northwest of Ecuador's coast.

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency in six provinces and has mobilised around 14,000 army and public security personnel to the affected areas.

BBC News reported on Monday that at least 272 people were confirmed dead and more than 1,500 hurt by the quake.