MALAYSIA (16 June 2000) -- Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid harshly criticized the Philippines government for taking too long to resolve the hostage crisis. Hamid also said that government officials appear to have no clear plan to win the release of the hostages. According to reports, Abu Sayyaf rebels are demanding $21m for the release of the hostages, however, government negotiators have said that ransom payments will not be considered. The Malaysian foreign minister also said that the Philippines government may need to consider paying the ransom demanded by the rebels. | | Sipadan hostages The hostages were abducted from a Sipadan Island diving resort on April 23. Several have become seriously ill and are in need of hospitalization. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK |
