The search for Malaysian amateur trekker Dennis Lee Thian Poh who disappeared while crossing the Pokhara-Msutang route in Western Nepal entered its 12th day today.

A search and rescue (SAR) operation comprising 63 Nepalese army and police personnel aided by sniffer dogs is combing the adjoining areas to locate the 48-year-old businessman.

Malaysia Embassy Counsellor/Charge d'Affaires in Kathmandu, Fadli Adilah told Bernama: "Nepal authorities have pledged to continue (the SAR) and are giving as much support as possible for our cause.

"...at the same time, we also need to understand their constraints such as limited experienced-personnel and tough weather.

"However, we are continuously hoping and appealing to the Nepali authorities to maintain and perhaps add in to their existing strategy and coordination."

He said Lee's family members had also joined in the SAR.

READ: More villagers join in search for Malaysian trekker Lee in Nepal

READ: Missing M'sian hiker: Family appeals for experienced trekkers to assist in SAR

"Although they (family members) remain positive, we need to understand that they are exhausted, confused and frustrated at times," he added.

On April 5, Lee had joined eight colleagues from the Philippines to scale the Annapurna circuit in Nepal.

The group only became aware of his disappearance at the Khopra Danda Track in Ghorepani area on Sunday, on the first day of their circuit climb.